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Managing Four Generations in the Workplace

With Cam Marston

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Learning Objectives• Describe the characteristics, attitudes, and values of

each generation

• Identify specific actions a manager can take to coach, motivate and get results from each generation

• Determine how your management approach may need to change when coaching, managing, and retaining employees of different generations

• Discover ways to Gen-Flex™ in order to solve generational problems in the workplace

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Matures

• Born before 1945 • 10% of our workforce• Influenced by the Military• 30 million people today• Most affluent group in our

nation• We first generation• Delayed Gratification -

work first, pleasure later

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Boomers• 1945-1964• Most influential people

today• 80 million people• Workaholic• Work ethic defined by

time• Important to be a team

member• Contributors to the team

are cherished

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Gen Xers

• 1964-1980• Prove it to me• 45 million people• Loyal to people, not

companies• Move from job-to-job

more frequently• Carpe Diem – Seize the

day!

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Millennials

• Born after 1980• 75 million people• Instant gratification• Quick feedback• Busy outside of work• Reward with time• Optimistic

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Learning How To Gen-Flex™

• What are the characteristics of each generation?

• What motivates each generation?

• What are the most important action steps for each generation?

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“What do you think are the most common problems or challenges with managing different generations in the

workplace?”

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Gen-Flexing™

Treat people the way they need to be treated!

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Solving Five Generational Problems

1. You Gotta Start Using Your Computer

2. What Does My Boss What From Me?

3. You Gotta Quit Listening to that iPod™!

4. What’s the Big Deal About Being a Little Late?

5. Don’t Talk to Me That Way!

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Quick Review• Remember to Gen-Flex™ to other

generations. Staying flexible and adaptable will help you solve generational differences in the workplace.

• Remember that it’s important to keep the lines of communication open and stay honest and direct with all of the generations.

• If you are unsure what someone from a different generation needs - ask! It’s the best way to open up an effect dialog.

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Quick Review, con’t

• Realize that you may have to alter and update your current management approach in order to influence other generations.

• Remember that executing management fundamentals well is the key to managing four generations in the workplace.

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Preview Only – Not to be used for Training