Economic Summit 2019

In the past, the typical workplace usually consisted of two generations. Tried and tested veterans and ambitious up-and-comers.  Campers and Climbers.
Today, however, it is not unusual for one to find oneself in a workforce made up of four or even five distinct generations and numerous different cultures, each with their own preferences, experiences and points of view.
This generational and cultural diversity can present potential pitfalls, conflict and tension between team members…but it can also be an invaluable source of creativity, innovation and growth.
By acknowledging and embracing the differences in expectations, learning, and performance styles, skills and perspectives, leaders can create a workplace that benefits from the sharing of power, experience, and skills. 
In this engaging, impactful session, Tim Kirkland explores the different views, needs and values of Baby Boomers, Gen X’ers, Millennials, and the emerging workforce of Gen Z and beyond as well as many various cultural sets. He details how applying an Adaptive Leadership approach can reduce friction and conflict while maintaining harmony, encouraging cooperation, and elevating results through generational and cultural cohesion in the workplace.
Attendees will learn to:
•             Acknowledge Differences, But Focus on Overlap
Emphasize that there are far more things that connect team members than separate them.  There is a tendency to dwell on differences in values and approach rather than shared priorities like feeling appreciated, wanting to do valuable work and life-balance.
•             Leverage Technology
Understand that organizational technology can tend to favor one generation or one culture over another.  Leverage tech across each group’s preferred tools and platforms to access information, multi-task and stay connected.
•             Encourage Cross-Generational Mentoring
Each generation has valuable knowledge and skills to teach each other. Create an environment where opportunities and resources are made available for this.
•             Prioritize Respect
Mutual respect for each other’s assets and attributes is key. Whether for experience and expertise or for potential and enthusiasm.
•             Eliminate Stereotyping
Perhaps the most damaging behavior on a blended team. Create an environment where each individual is judged on their own merits, not the assumptions assigned to their generation or background.
•             Stay Flexible
Each generation values workplace flexibility in their own way, whether it’s work-life balance for younger team members, maternity/paternity/parental care leave in the middle or sabbaticals as team members get older. Focus on results and outcomes rather than time and systems.