Meagan Johnson - Generational Speaker

Solve Your Challenges and Bridge the Gap between Generations at Your Multigenerational Workforce

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Celebrating Diversity Month in the Workplace

April might be known for spring showers and the occasional tax headache, but were you aware that April is also Celebrating Diversity Month?

As a generational enthusiast with a passion for bridging the generational gap, I’m excited to share more about celebrating diversity in the workplace, both in April and year-round!  

Celebrating Diversity Month

Celebrating Diversity Month

If we’re being real, the generational gap can sometimes feel wider than the Grand Canyon when we interact with one another! Baby Boomers might be muttering about “kids these days” while Gen Z wraps their brains around fax machines still being a thing. At the end of the day, each generation brings a unique set of skills, perspectives, and experiences to the table.

Let’s take a quick minute to review…

  • Baby Boomers [Born 1946-1964]: Renowned for their work ethic and leadership qualities, Baby Boomers provide stability and a wealth of experience.
  • Gen X [Born 1965-1980]: Self-reliant and adaptable, Gen X thrives in independent roles and excels at problem-solving.
  • Millennials [Born 1981-1996]: Digitally native and collaborative, Millennials bring fresh ideas, a passion for purpose, and an entrepreneurial spirit.
  • Gen Z [Born 1997-2012]: Born into a digital world, Gen Z is adept at social media engagement, creative content creation, and innovative solutions.
Working in a multi-generational workforce

Working in a Multi-Generational Workforce

Working in a multi-generational workforce, we’re reminded of constant change and it can sometimes feel overwhelming keeping up. As we navigate diversity, in the workplace and outside of it, patience and open mindedness are key. Make time to ask questions and avoid making assumptions. Let’s consider these 5 tips: 

These are just a few ways you can begin fostering conversations and collaboration in the workplace.

Diversity in the Workplace

Ultimately, diversity is just the first key in the recipe for a successful workplace. Inclusion is the secret ingredient that binds everything together. Recognize and reward employees who demonstrate open-mindedness, collaboration across generations, and a healthy respect for differences. Foster a space where everyone feels safe to speak their minds, share ideas, and challenge the status quo. Celebrate diversity in all its forms – age, race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, and ability.

For any generational issues or questions, you always have Gen-Expert Meagan Johnson. Reach out by email, direct message, or even a traditional phone call. Until then, stay open-minded and keep Zapping the Generational Gap!

Roar or Reform? Celebrating with Humor and Heart

Celebrating Women’s History Month

Happy Tuesday! Are you also surprised that it’s already March? Ringing in the annual tradition of… *checks calendar* … Women’s History Month!

Time to dust off the inspirational quotes about glass ceilings, pioneering women, and fire up the “I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar” playlist (because apparently, we should still roar).

While Women’s History Month can sometimes feel like a Hallmark holiday with a slightly more serious message, it’s important to remember the why behind the what. *cue history lesson*

The Rise of the Female Trailblazers: Enter the Era of Power Suits and Paychecks (Finally!)

The feminist movement of the 20th century was basically a giant middle finger to the status quo. Women like Gloria Steinem and Betty Friedan said, “Enough is enough!” They demanded equal rights, equal pay, and the chance to, you know, not wear an itchy petticoat every day.

Cue the “Baby Boomers”

This generation saw a surge in working moms. While they might’ve faced resistance from some “stay-at-home” parents, these women paved the way for future generations to juggle careers and motherhood with ninja-like efficiency.

Gen X Women: Breaking the Glass Ceiling (and Maybe a Few Wine Glasses)

Gen X women entered the workforce with a “can-do” attitude and a healthy dose of skepticism towards the whole “glass ceiling” thing. They saw their mothers break barriers and weren’t about to let a metaphor hold them back. This generation saw a significant increase in women in leadership positions, proving once again that women can lead, manage, and rock a killer suit (with slightly wider shoulder pads, of course).

Millennials: The Work-Life Balance Renegades (and the Masters of Side Hustles)

Millennial women grew up with the expectation of a career, not just a job. They value flexibility and work-life balance, thanks in part to the trailblazing moms who came before them. This generation embraces technology and side hustles, turning their passions into paychecks. They’re also the generation most likely to call out unequal pay and demand change.

Gen Z: Make Room for the Latest Generation in the Workforce

Gen Z are growing up in different environments from previous generations. They “value individual expression,” “mobilize themselves for a variety of causes,” and “believe profoundly in the efficacy of dialogue to solve conflicts and improve the world.”

With all this constant change, this is much more than just some history lesson – it’s a present-day reminder. A reminder that women have always been there, pushing boundaries, breaking barriers, and, yes, occasionally roaring in the face of adversity. *cue Katy Perry – Roar* 

With that being said, how can we approach this month with both respect and a healthy dose of humor?

Here are a few tips:

  • Challenge Biases: Understanding the historical context of women’s struggles helps dismantle unconscious biases that may still exist in our society today.
  • Ditch the clichés: We’ve all seen the “women holding up the world” memes and “strong female character” tropes a million times. Let’s celebrate the real, diverse experiences of women, from the boardroom to the battlefield, and everything in between.
  • Humor? Yes, but responsibly: A little laughter can go a long way, but remember, the goal is to celebrate, not belittle. Aim for humor that empowers and uplifts, rather than reinforces tired stereotypes.
  • Amplify diverse voices: Not all women’s experiences are created equal. This month, use your platform to showcase the stories of women from different backgrounds, ethnicities, and walks of life.
  • Go beyond the month: While Women’s History Month provides a dedicated focus, let’s not relegate our appreciation and advocacy for women to just 31 days. Let’s strive for continuous acknowledgment and support throughout the year.

Women’s History is a continuous journey that requires ongoing effort, open minds, and maybe even a sprinkle of humor along the way. So, let’s celebrate Women’s History Month, but let’s also remember that the real celebration is ongoing, every single day!