Age is prominent on the social location wheel, experienced by everyone, and yet often left out of the diversity conversation. Though some companies are already there, by 2025, millennials will make up nearly 80% of the workforce. On their heels is Gen Z (born since 2000), which are also in their first jobs. As these generations eagerly grow, so does a misunderstanding and divide between them and the older generations they work alongside. How do we increase empathy between generations? How do we motivate GenY/Z while still reaching business goals? This session will explore the defining characteristics of millennials, how to foster intergenerational understanding in the workplace, and how to successfully engage and retain these connected generations.
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the issues and costs surrounding age in the workplace
- Understand age as a diversity metric
- Understand the historical context surrounding Gen Z, Gen Y & Gen X upbringings
- Identify 10 defining millennial traits
- Identify 4 threats to change in the workplace
- Explain at least 5 potential strategies for solving this problem
Benefits
- A more cohesive and collaborative workforce
- Increased understanding and empathy between older and younger folks in your company
- Age introduced into the diversity conversation
- Boosted productivity when people get along
- A workforce prepared for the unavoidable future generational configuration