With multiple generations working side by side for several years now, much has been written about the key differences that affect the ability of multigenerational teams to collaborate successfully. Some organizations have taken this advice to heart and work to consciously reflect these differences when it comes to selecting and cultivating teams. Others have dismissed the advice as irrelevant, unimportant, or simply too overwhelming to do much about.
Most of what’s been written has come from those of us who are considerably older (and more experienced) than our Gen X and Gen Y counterparts. For this article, co-author Sheryl Lindsell-Roberts and I sought the perspectives of some of our Gen X and Gen Y colleagues . After all, for all of the wisdom we older generations think we have to offer, the Gen X and Y folks of the world have a lot to teach us, too. Here are observations and advice culled from our recent interviews with our younger counterparts.
Take the time to teach us
We know that you have wisdom we can benefit from, but sometimes we don’t know the best way to get at it. We know, for example, that a lot of thought must go into making some of the tough and complex decisions you need to make, but unless we understand the logic and rationale, we can’t learn from you. Plus, we may not be happy with some of the decision you make if we can’t understand why you made them. Ask us for our input. Involve us in making decisions when it’s appropriate. Find time to spell out for us the reasons you say and do the things you do so we can capitalize on your knowledge. And who knows? We may have ideas of our own that you can use as well.
Give us the opportunity to teach you
Even though we may be relatively new to the business world, we have interesting perspectives and fresh ideas to offer. Just ask us. And if you don’t know how to use instant messaging, or if you feel uncomfortable texting, or if you have reservations about using wikis, blogs, or social networks, just ask us, and we can show you how. We know that some of you are much more comfortable talking face to face or using the phone, and we respect your choices. But we ask you to open your minds to trying new avenues so we can all feel more confident and comfortable communicating.
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