| Team Diversity - Connecting the Generational Pieces |
 On a recent Delta flight, I was surprised that the cover of the SKY Magazine featured Katy Perry, singer/songwriter with the notation, “Katy Perry, like the rest of her generation, is “open to change”, looking for “a bit of spiritual awakening” – and rocking our world.” The issue was dedicated to the topic of Generation Next and the Millennials! Even Delta realizes that business leaders need to be thinking about the diversity of their teams and how to help them work more efficiently together. Katy’s image and songs are not exactly my cup of tea, (which makes perfect sense since I’m a Baby Boomer), but if we found ourselves on the same team, it would be easier for us to work together if we had knowledge and guidance on how generational issues impact work styles, communications and team performance. Teams and Generational IssuesA few weeks ago I wrote in my career development blog about the importance of being able to work with team members from all generations [let’s include a link to that blog in the word blog]. This is a topic I’ve been passionate about, but haven’t always experienced a lot of energy from others about it. However, times are changing. It appears the mood is shifting and I think business leaders are getting the message – this is an issue you need to be paying attention to! Now everywhere you look people are studying, analyzing, talking about, and implementing changes to help organizations better manage a workforce of mixed generations. Tamara J. Erickson’s, research on intergenerational work issues identified that generational conflicts unfortunately center around four essential team activities: 1 Choosing where and when to work 2 Communicating among team members 3 Getting together 4 Finding information or learning new things Closing the Generational GapKeep these potential conflict activities in mind as you design and facilitate team development events. Help your team members talk about their diverse perspectives and help raise their awareness to the positive impacts of generational diversity, resulting not only from generational events, but also from factors such as education, religion, family backgrounds, personal values, etc. Decide together which norms will work best for the team and specifically address the four key activities noted above, recognizing that these discussions may include lively debates. It may also be helpful to create opportunities for team members to get to know each other on a more personal level so they can gain a better understanding of each team member, improve their relationship, and ultimately work more effectively together. For a summary of general generational tendencies click here. I compiled this table using Ron Zemke’s book, Generations at Work an article by Greg Hammill, Director, Fairleigh Dickinson University, together with information available at www.smartmanager.us and www.babyboomercaretaker.com . I hope this general view of characteristics most associated with a particular generation will aid you in strengthening a culture that embraces and celebrates differences. |
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