e-Tips

Wouldn’t we all like a jumpstart in the fast-paced and competitive work world? When facilitating discussions within groups of students and alumni or other multi-generational groups I often ask: “What do you wish your knew sooner in your career?” Recently on the Cross-Generational Conversation group on Linkedin I asked members to name three things. I share here highlights of the results as well as additional contributions from other online and in-person forums.

I also have noted whether certain lessons were offered by a particular generational member only.  (Note: this is a limited sample.) One conclusion is that all generations lend important perspectives to each other on this question, confirming how valuable these discussions are.

Common themes from individuals across generations:

• Give honest feedback- promptly.
• Speak up - directly confront problem behavior promptly.
• Stay true to yourself.
• When you own your mistakes, it leads to respect and opportunity to make things better.
• Listen to others even if you don’t agree with them.
• Collaboration is key to success (especially reiterated by Boomers), and consult collaborators before making decisions.
• Networking and relationship building are about asking good questions.
• Help others first to get where you want to go (faster).

Coming from a particular generation:

• Your reputation is your most valuable asset (Gen X).
• Think before responding provocatively or hitting “send.” (Boomers)
• Changing yourself is easier than achieving organizational change. (Boomer-Gen X cusper)
• Great communication involves body language and tone of voice, not just message (Boomer). Take a stand but avoid alienating others.
• Trustworthy and respectful is more important than perfect (Gen X).
• Healthy eating is crucial for life and work success (Traditionalist).
• Wonderful things are only achieved by working with others (Gen X - and counter to typical perceptions of Gen X).
• Realize that a college education is most helpful if you are aware of what you are not learning and getting (Gen Y/Millennial).
• Figuring out and acting on your professional interests is not selfish, but the most responsible thing you can do for yourself long term (Gen Y, which I expect many Boomers and Gen Xers would agree with)
• Your career is likely to go off plan. Be flexible. (Gen X-Y cusper)

To add a family flavor, here are some of the shared thoughts from a panel of Gen Xers and Yers on the subject of “What I Wish My Parents Had Told Me Sooner” at the Renaissance Weekend at New Year’s time 2011-12. Many parents were there listening.

• Respect everyone.
• It’s important to tune into all the resources we have as humans: mind and heart.
• Stand up and speak out on what matters to you.
• Listen to financial planning.
• Look around you, observe and listen.
• Life is not linear. You will shift paths. Enjoy the ride.
• Try different things, even if you fail.
• Bad things that happen often turn out for the best.
• How to be unemotional in times of crisis.
• Honor and pamper yourself.

What do you wish you knew sooner? I’m sure you have additional lessons learned we’d like to hear. Send them to me at pwhaserot@pdcounsel.com to post or comment on the Cross-Generational Conversation group on Linkedin.

Phyllis

© Phyllis Weiss Haserot, 2013. All rights reserved.

* The generational chronology for easy reference: Generations are defined by the similar formative influences – social, cultural, political, economic – that existed as the individuals of particular birth cohorts were growing up. Given that premise, the age breakdowns for each of the four generations currently in the workplace are approximately:

Traditionalists:                                  born 1925-1942   

Baby Boomers                                   born 1943-1962

Generation X                                     born 1963-1978

Generation Y/Millennials                   born 1979-1998   

Learn about our *Generational Wisdom for Mentors and Mentees* programs as well as multi-generational team facilitation. Call 212-593-1549 or e-mail pwhaserot@pdcounsel.com.

For coaching, training and special programs on inter-generational challenges for and among 4 generations in the workplace and maximizing the potential of young professionals, call or email Phyllis for an exploratory talk or complimentary coaching session at 212-593-1549 or pwhaserot@pdcounsel.com. .