Generational Diversity (Canton Library Presentation)
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Transcript of Generational Diversity (Canton Library Presentation)
GENERATIONAL DIVERSITY IN THE INFORMATION WORKPLACE
SOPHIA GUEVARA, MLISCANTON PUBLIC LIBRARY | 11.14.08
The Matures, Boomers, Generation X and Y
Learning Objectives
Identify and define the four generations working together in today’s information work environment.
Confront the stereotypes of each generation. Review the unique background and value that members of each generation brings to the information work environment.
Tips on how to improve generational interaction and communication.
What is Diversity?
Diversity
Many of us tend to limit workplace diversity to gender, race and ethnicity when the concept means so much more.
"Diversity refers to human qualities that are different from our own and those of groups to which we belong; but that are manifested in other individuals and groups.”
Diversity adds to an organization’s competitiveness.
“Diversity in the Workplace”. FootHill-DeAnza Community College District: Human Resources. Retrieved online April 6, 2008 from: http://hr.fhda.edu/diversity/
Generational Diversity
The Matures, Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y
The unique backgrounds and experiences of today’s information workforce leads to a unique blend of: Motivations and expectations
Work/life balance, feedback, promotion Communication and interaction methods
Face-to-face vs. virtual Work strategies and tool employment
Technology
A Closer Look: The Matures, Boomer, X and Y
Snapshot: The Matures
Born 1909-1945 (varies)
Under 10 million (2005 est.)
Defining events: Women stepping out into the workforce
Loyal Established
networks Take work
seriously and may be more open to working flexible schedules
Background Value to the Information Work Environment
Snapshot: The Boomers
Born 1946-1964 (varies)
78.2 million (July 2005 est.)
Defining events: Advent of television and the Vietnam War
Driven work ethic Service-oriented A fountain of
knowledge earned through years of experience
Background Value to the Information Work Environment
-Martin, J. “I Have Shoes Older Than You: Generational Diversity In The Library.” The Southeastern Librarian, (54)3. Pgs 4-11. - US Census Bureau. “Facts for Features: Oldest Baby Boomers Turn 60.” Retrieved online on April 5, 2008 at: http://www.census.gov/Press-Release/www/releases/archives/facts_for_features_special_editions/006105.html
Snapshot: Generation X
Born 1965-1976 (varies)
Previously known as the Post-Boomers
Generation X:Tales for an Accelerated Culture by Douglas Coupland
Results oriented Little supervision
needed Well-versed in
technology
Background Value to the Information Work Environment
- Thielfoldt, D. & Scheef, D. “Generation X and the Millenials: What you need to know about mentoring the new generations.” Retrieved online April 6, 2008 from:http://www.abanet.org/lpm/lpt/articles/mgt08044.html- Raines, C. 1997. “Beyond Generation X: A Bridge-Building Guide for Managers.” p. 11. Retrieved from Google Book Search on April 6, 2008 at: http://books.google.com/books?id=OsThLU5g8rEC&pg=PA11&lpg=PA11&dq=origination+of+generation+x+label&source=web&ots=oB7uM2N9Op&sig=dnBvI559wpL_9d_k4EzGg-ua1hE&hl=en
Snapshot: Generation Y
73.5 million Born1977-1994
(varies)
May also be referred to as the Digital Generation or Millennials
Digital Natives Fresh eyes/energy Willing to share
innovative ideas with team members
Background Value to the Information Work Environment
Confronting the Generational Stereotypes
Confronting the Stereotype
The Matures
Poor technology skills Unable (or unwilling)
to change Unable or unwilling
to be employed in positions with more than part-time hours
The Negative Image Stereotype
Understanding the Matures
Increasing numbers in the talent pool because of the economy
The Matures at work
The Boomers
Poor technology skills
Unable (or unwilling) to change
Low energy
The Negative Image Stereotype
Understanding the Boomers
While members of this generation may have been born before the computer revolution, their ability to adapt has helped them gain
The Boomers at work
Generation X
Slacker Generation
Aimless Underachiever
The Negative Image Stereotype
Understanding Generation X
Look for opportunities to advance their skills
Don’t necessarily look towards a company to invest their loyalty in
Generation X at work
Generation Y
Impatient/Demanding
“Praise junkies” Inexperience limits
their ability to make meaningful contributions within the work environment
The Negative Image Stereotype
Understanding Generation Y
Fresh eyes and innovative ideas
Interested in jobs that will grant them personal fulfillment
Want to make a difference
Generation Y at work
Working Together in the Information Workplace: Tips for Success
Connect with your colleagues
Connect with the individual, not the stereotype.
Understand different work habits
Don’t be afraid to try new methods of working and communicating
Members of different generations may have different work habits Example: The use and
expectation of technology in the everyday work environment
Understand Motives and Values
Try to put yourself in your colleague’s shoes to experience the world from a different vantage point
Respect the values and motives of your colleagues
The role and importance of constructive conflict
The importance of communication
Share what you know
Participate in mentoring and reverse-mentoring relationships.
Everyone makes an impact – choose to make yours a positive one.
Questions?
CONCLUSIONGenerational Diversity in the Information Workplace