Leading in a Multigenerational Organization -- Laura

This was yet another very interesting workshop. Maureen Sullivan, an organizational consultant, led a discussion about the presence of four different generations in the workplaces (more specifically, the library). The generations discussed were traditionals (born pre-1946), Boomers (1946-1964), Generation X (1965-1980. I guess, being born in 1975, that's me. I always thought I was younger than Generation X), and Millenials (1981-2000). Maureen asked the group to ponder the following: What are some of the challenges of the many generations working together?; What are the perceptions of each generation; What are the assets and liabilities of each generation? We talked in small groups for a few minutes, which was interesting. My group consisted of myself, a reference librarian who is a Millenial (I'm getting old!) and a baby boomer. I had the most trouble identifying the assets and liabilities of my own generation, since I live in it. It was interesting to hear other perspectives on my generation. As a large group, we then talked about what each thought of each generation. We then talked about being careful not to stereotype based on generation, however, it is helpful to view what we see as characteristics of the generation. Maureen then asked us to read what experts say about each generation and whether or not we fit the characteristics. I didn't relate to many of the characteristics for my generation, for instance. There was some talk of technology and how we can learn from the generation coming into the workforce, such as not watching the clock, recognizing that respect is earned, and that work constantly changing is not necessarily a bad thing. Some also mentioned that no one should view age as a disability. Maureen also talked about the sandwich generation, which is the generation who is in the position of caring for their children and their parents.
This was a very interesting topic that could have easily been an all day seminar instead of an hour and fifteen minute program.