Craig T. Owens

Listen to the podcast of this post by clicking on the player below, and you can also subscribe on Apple, Spotify, or Audible.

“Kids these days just don’t understand!”

That’s probably a phrase you’ve heard more than a few times from members of generations your elder, and there is some truth to it! Each generation has very diverse experiences which make them unique from the groups before and after them. In today’s episode, Greg and I want to encourage you to understand and embrace generational differences to make your team stronger.

• [0:00] Be sure to pick up Greg’s new book Sales Armageddon.
• [0:32] I got called a Boomer!
• [1:18] Communicating with a multi-generational team requires different approaches.
• [2:52] Many from the Boomer generation are past retirement age, but still enjoy the work they do.
• [4:09] Boomers tend to respect authority, where Gen X might be more skeptical.
• [4:42] Boomers value formality, but Gen X have embraced a more relaxed work culture.
• [6:01] “Put in the time” versus “the value I bring” mentalities.
• [6:59] Boomers have a very work first mentality, Gen X embraced more of a work-life balance.
• [8:33] Newer generations are much more likely to work multiple jobs in their career.
• [9:43] Motivations and loyalties across different generations.
• [12:31] Generation iY.
• [13:32] The learning and work styles of different generations.
• [14:39] Gen Y are heavily influenced by internet and social media thought.
• [16:01] Gen Y are very well informed, but sometimes lack practical experience.
• [16:44] Desire to collaborate varies across generations.
• [17:33] We like to lead in our preferred style, but that isn’t always the best approach.
• [20:18] Gen Z have in many ways begun to mirror Boomers.
• [21:18] The top line takeaway is respect.
• [22:51] I share my biggest lessons learned growing in the workforce.
• [24:14] Greg shares his final thoughts on generational divides.
• [26:43] Maximize coaching can help you learn to better connect with your team.