The world and the workplace have changed in countless ways over the past few decades, and these changes are reflected in the distinct characteristics of each generation. Research and experience have shown us that each generation views their personal and professional lives through very different prisms. While this diversity in points of view can bring richness to an organization, it can also bring conflict, frustration and problems with communication. To understand the motivations and behaviors of others, employees at all levels must begin by understanding the influence of generational experiences on an individual’s priorities, preferences, and reactions.
In this course, participants will learn techniques to distinguish between behaviors which are true problems requiring supervisory or managerial corrective intervention and those which are generational differences to be managed. Through group exercises, class discussion, and lecture, the class will tackle the timeless expression – “They just don’t get it!” – and find ways to leverage generational differences to take advantage of the talents which every individual brings to the work team.
At the conclusion of the course, participants should be able to do the following:
- Understand the importance of how value programming shapes the attitudes and work habits of different generations of employees currently in and coming into the workforce.
- Understand the effect of generational stereotypes and preferred styles of communication on workplace relationships
- Apply contemporary social science theory in the development of strategies to motivate members of each generation
- Recognize commonalities and areas of potential conflict between generations. Learn to apply conflict resolution techniques where applicable
- Recognize the benefits of diversity of thought gained in a multi-generational workforce