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