Age is Just a Number, But Who's Counting?

A multi-generational workplace has the Baby Boomers recounting the good old days, Gen Xers quietly getting things done, Millennials posting to social media every coffee break, and Gen Zs somehow making a career out of TikTok. How do you wrangle this motley crew to make your organization thrive?

By becoming a generational bridge builder, of course. No construction experience necessary!

DEI Is Fly

A strong diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) culture fosters an environment that values and integrates diverse backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives. DEI can create a sense of belonging and mutual respect among all age groups.

Bridging the multi-generational gaps takes these key competencies.

Self-Awareness

Taylor Swift says, “I’ll look directly in the sun, but never in the mirror.” Yeah, don’t do that.

Encourage every team member to reflect on and know their strengths and quirky charms… and appreciate the same in others. This isn't just introspection for the sake of it. It's about recognizing how actions (or lack of) could be museum exhibits for other generations. "Behold the Millennial in their natural habitat... sending an email that simply says ‘Ok, Thanks!' and feeling it's too wordy."

Pivoting Perfection

Being agile and encouraging it in others isn’t about dodging responsibilities or running from accountability. It's about being your best. Agility in the workplace is about adapting your communication and collaboration techniques and welcoming positive change faster than a Boomer can say, “Back in my day…”

Optimism

Not the “yo dude, awesome” kind, but a strategic, calculated optimism that lets you see potential in every generational quirk. Optimism is the tie that binds teams together, promotes an innovative culture, champions each other's strengths, and sees everyone's contributions.

Networking

Effective networking is about genuinely connecting. Think of it as finding common interests that span decades. Maybe it's a shared love for r&b, travel, pets, or the latest tech gadget. By doing so, you position yourself as a versatile connector, fluent in both dad puns and Pinterest.

Build a Company of Generational Translators

When teams embrace DEI, they become capable of interpreting and integrating diverse perspectives and approaches. And that becomes a generational bridge builder within your organization.

After all, who said you can’t teach an old executive new Slack tricks?

We are rooting for you!

Avery and Brian