bridging the gap between the rising and the retiring generations

Bridging the Gap between the Rising and the Retiring Generations!

Shira HarringtonFounder & President, Purposeful Hire

Kids These Days!

“Children today are tyrants.

They contradict their parents, gobble their food and tyrannize their

teachers.”

Socrates (470-399 B.C.)

Disclaimers About the Generations

Generational diversity vs. age diversity

People are individuals

Use to archetype, not to stereotype!

What Shaped the Traditionalists?Traditionalist1915 - 1945

• Hard work• Sacrifice• Respect for authority• Following the rules• Frugality• Military focus• God and country

Traditionalist Values

What Shaped the Baby Boomers?Baby Boomer1946 - 1964

• Bucked the system then…• Learned to respect authority• Live to work• Pay your dues• Face time• Career-focused• Competitive• Long-tenured jobs• Women in leadership• Diversity / Civil rights

Baby Boomer Values

Baby Boomers Today

• Sandwiched generation• Facing financial crisis• Can’t retire or don’t want to• Long life expectancy

What Shaped Generation X?

Generation X1965 - 1980

• Independence• Self-reliance• Cynicism• Questions authority• Entrepreneurism• Work to live• Work-life balance

Generation X Values

What Shaped the Millennials?

Millennial1981 - 2000

• High expectations / Self-esteem• Strong parental influence• Global diversity• Saving the environment• Tech-focused• Team oriented• Work-life integration• Multi-tasking• Rapid career advancement• Frequent feedback• Question everything• Personal branding

Millennial Values

Millennials TodayFacing massive college debt61% of recent grads unemployed or underemployed“Recessionistas”—tight budget but trendyWant to innovate but fear failingAfraid of commitmentUnlimited opportunities--seeking adventuresWant to change the worldHyper connected to global network

Generational Values

Loyalty

Respect for Authority

Need for Feedback

“Paying Dues”

Work-life Balance

Multitasking

Comfort with Technology

• It’s cool!Under 35

• It’s just a tool.Over 35

Process Improvement

Innovation and Risk Taking

Communication

Discuss with your neighbor

What is one thing you could do to raise the level of engagement in your multigenerational

workforce?

Questions?

Shira HarringtonFounder & PresidentPurposeful Hire, Inc.

shira@purposefulhire.com703-508-9573

www.purposefulhire.com