Understanding Generations in the Workplace

It’s that special time of the year when America comes together to cheer for the USA for nearly 3 weeks! “The theatrical, four-hour ceremony that aired live on Friday afternoon in the U.S. came in 10 million viewers higher than NBCUniversal’s coverage of the Tokyo opening ceremony in 2021 and more than 2 million higher than Rio in 2016, according to NBCUniversal.” The history behind the Olympics is fascinating and dense!

Olympics Fostered Unity and Understanding

The ancient Greeks believed that the Olympics fostered unity and understanding among others, which is the overall point we want to discuss. The original values of Olympism as expressed in the Olympic Charter were to “encourage effort”, “preserve human dignity” and “develop harmony”. Over time, they have evolved and are now expressed in more contemporary terms as:

• Striving for excellence and encouraging people to be the best they can be.
• Demonstrating respect in many different manners: respect towards yourself, the rules, your opponents, the environment, the public, etc.
• Celebrating friendship, which is quite unique to the Olympic Games – an event that brings people together every few years.

“The goal of Olympism is to place sport at the service of the harmonious development of humankind, with a view to promoting a peaceful society concerned with the preservation of human dignity.”

Today, that same spirit can help us zap the generational gaps and differences we face in our multigenerational workplaces. So, how can we channel our inner Olympians to create a more connected and collaborative environment? Let’s share some ideas… 

Striving for Excellence: In a S.M.A.R.T Way 

It’s important to emphasize that excellence is never about being perfect; perfection is not a realistic goal. Striving for excellence is about growing to the best version of yourself, inside and outside of work.

• Challenge yourself with S.M.A.R.T goals: S.M.A.R.T = Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound. In general, SMART goals are effective because they provide the clarity, focus, and motivation you need to achieve your goals. They’re also time-bound and measurable, so you’ll know when you’ve completed a goal. Make time to celebrate your wins and be proud of yourself! 
• Support your teammates: Mutual respect, collaboration, and a willingness to help others is what truly makes an environment special & successful. Are you cultivating an environment where individuals feel valued, empowered, and able to be their true selves?
• Understand the organization’s mission & vision: Harvard Business Review reports that companies with a clearly defined and communicated mission statement have higher levels of employee engagement and loyalty. Additionally, 63% of employees at companies with solid mission statements report being motivated, versus 31% at other companies.

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” ― Aristotle

Demonstrating Respect: You & Your Words Matter

In the spirit of the Olympics, respect means valuing everyone, regardless of their background, experience, or opinions.

• Listen actively: According to Harvard Business Review, “research shows that those who engage in active listening are seen as more competent, likable, and trustworthy by others.”
• Celebrate differences: Embrace diversity and learn from those who are different from you. Remember, even the ancient Olympics eventually opened their doors to women athletes! 
• Choose your words carefully: With the surge of remote work, it’s more important than ever for leaders to recognize the power in their voice. Especially while communicating remotely over video where body language won’t necessarily come through, your words matter even more.

By fostering a respectful environment, both in-person and online, you’ll create a workplace where everyone feels safe to share their ideas and contribute their unique talents.

Celebrating Friendship: Zapping the Gap Across the Generations

Just like the Olympics bring together athletes from all walks of life, our workplaces are best suited when they reflect openness and diversity.

• Connect with your colleagues: Getting to know your team members can help build trust and promote open communication between you and those you manage. While it may seem simple, showing your team members you are interested in them can benefit your team’s overall production and job satisfaction. 
• Be supportive: Offer a listening ear, a helping hand, or a word of encouragement when needed. Remember, you and your words matter. 
• Create opportunities for collaboration: A study conducted by Stanford University found that participants who worked collaboratively were able to stay with a task 64% longer than those who worked independently. The Olympics are a beautiful representation of connection, support, and collaboration. 

By embracing the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship, we can transform our workplaces and the future generations to come. We tie our time together with the new Olympic motto, as of July 2021: “Citius, Altius, Fortius – Communiter” “Faster, Higher, Stronger – Together.” 

It’s June 18th, 2024 and as a collective we have a responsibility to continue sharing our stories and history. Together we reflect on a momentous time and honor Juneteenth aka Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Emancipation Day and Black Independence Day. For over 150 years, Juneteenth has held a sacred place in many Black communities. It commemorates the day in 1865 when enslaved people in Galveston, Texas, finally learned of their freedom. A delayed but momentous moment occurring after the Civil War and over two years following President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

Despite many obstacles, Juneteenth continued to be celebrated in many communities, often through church gatherings, picnics, and parades. It serves as a time to reflect on the past, celebrate freedom, and inspire hope for the future. In the 20th century, the Civil Rights Movement brought renewed attention to Juneteenth, as activists recognized its significance in the fight for racial justice.

“President Biden signed legislation in 2021 that made Juneteenth, which falls on June 19, a federal holiday, after interest in the day was renewed during the summer of 2020 and the nationwide protests that followed the police killings of Black Americans including George Floyd and Breonna Taylor.”

This landmark decision marked a significant step towards acknowledging the contributions of African Americans and honoring their history.

How Can WE Contribute Today? 

Each generation carries unique perspectives, and Juneteenth is a powerful connection point for shared empathy and unity.

Here are some ways each generation may contribute: 

Baby Boomers:

• Share Stories and Experiences: Many Boomers have lived through significant historical events related to the Civil Rights Movement. Some may have direct or familial connections to the era of slavery and segregation. Sharing personal stories and perspectives can help younger generations understand the significance of Juneteenth and the ongoing struggle for racial justice. 

Gen X:

• Bridge the Generational Gap: Gen Xers can act as a bridge between older and younger generations, sharing their experiences and perspectives with a less personal connection. Growing up during a time of increasing cultural diversity, Gen Xers may have developed a heightened awareness of racial issues and a desire to learn more about Juneteenth’s significance. They can help create spaces for open and honest conversations about race, history, and equality, both in the workplace and in their communities.

Millennials:

• Advocate for Change: Millennials are known for their passion for social justice. They are the first generation to grow up in the digital age, utilizing social media and online platforms to amplify voices and raise awareness about Juneteenth. They prioritize social impact and are likely to engage in volunteerism, community organizing, and supporting businesses that align with their values of diversity and inclusion. They can use these skills to plan and participate in Juneteenth events and initiatives. 

Gen Z:

• Educate and Inform: Gen Z are the most racially and ethnically diverse generation, growing up in a more multicultural environment. They are experts at creating and sharing content on social media. Gen Z can hold individuals, organizations, and institutions accountable for promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion. They are passionate about social justice issues and view Juneteenth as a call to action to dismantle systemic racism and create a more equitable future.

How Can Your Company Acknowledge Juneteenth?

“Juneteenth is an excellent time to take a closer look at your policies and programs, examine your data, and check in with workers. According to our 2021 study, Stepping up for Equity, many companies are still missing important opportunities to get feedback from Black employees.” There are many meaningful ways to mark this important day:

1. Support Employee Resource Groups (ERGs): If your company has ERGs focused on diversity and inclusion, empower them to lead Juneteenth initiatives. This is a great way to amplify diverse voices and ensure authentic representation.
2. Company-Wide Communication: Send out an email or internal newsletter including the significance of Juneteenth. Encourage employees to learn more and participate in any planned activities.
3. Lunch and Learn Sessions: Host a virtual or in-person session where employees can celebrate Juneteenth, discuss how we can each do our part, and share our own personal experiences.
4. Volunteer Opportunities: Partner with local organizations that support African American communities. Encourage employees to volunteer their time or participate in fundraising efforts.
5. Celebrate Through the Arts: Organize book clubs or discussions around books by Black authors that explore African American history, culture, or contemporary issues.

Let’s Make Juneteenth a Year-Round Effort 

Despite personal and generational differences, there’s a shared recognition of Juneteenth’s importance as a day of remembrance, celebration, and education. Each generation is instrumental to the ongoing conversation about racial justice, albeit with unique perspectives and approaches.

By understanding and appreciating our diverse perspectives, we can foster a more inclusive and meaningful observance of Juneteenth, promoting dialogue, unity, and collective action towards a more equitable society. Today, tomorrow, and year-round. It’s a friendly reminder that while our journeys may be different, our destination is the same.

While May brings us fun like Cinco de Mayo margaritas and Memorial Day BBQs, we’re making sure we pay homage to World Day for Cultural Diversity!  

“Held every year on 21 May, UNESCO leads the celebration of World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development highlighting not only the richness of the world’s cultures, but also the essential role of intercultural dialogue for achieving peace and sustainable development.”

Cultural Diversity

Though cultural diversity and generational diversity are distinct in their origins, we find significant similarities in their impact on society and the workplace. Think about it: each generation is born into a specific cultural context, a snapshot in time where trends, technologies, and social norms shape their worldviews and experiences. Boomers grew up with rock ‘n’ roll and the civil rights movement, Gen Xers were latchkey kids raised on MTV and grunge, Millennials embraced the internet and avocado toast, and Zoomers are fluent in memes and TikTok. Gen-Expert Meagan Johnson acknowledges these experiences in time as generational signposts in her “Zap the Generational Gap” presentation.

As we consider generational signposts, our cultural diversity adds an extra layer of complexity to our multigenerational society. Imagine a Gen Zer growing up in a traditional Indian household, a Millennial raised in a multiracial family in Brazil, or a Boomer who immigrated to the United States as a child. These individuals aren’t just shaped by their generation – they’re influenced by a unique blend of cultural traditions, values, and beliefs!

Similarities Between Cultural and Generational Diversity

One of the key similarities between cultural and generational diversity lies in the importance of recognizing and valuing individual differences. Whether it’s a friend or an employee’s cultural heritage or their generational upbringing, these unique attributes shape their worldview, communication style, and approach to work. By acknowledging and respecting our differences, we can collectively create a more inclusive and welcoming environment where everyone feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute.

Another commonality is the need to challenge stereotypes and biases. Both cultural and generational diversity are often plagued by stereotypes that can limit our understanding of individuals that then hinder collaboration. By actively challenging our biases and seeking to understand others on their own terms, we can build stronger relationships, foster trust, and create a more equitable workplace.

The Unique Opportunity for Learning and Growth…

Both cultural and generational diversity offer unique opportunities for learning and growth. By interacting with colleagues from different backgrounds and age groups, we can broaden our perspectives, challenge our assumptions, and gain new insights.

Here are 5 quick tips: 

• Be curious and open-minded: Ask questions, listen actively, and seek out opportunities to learn about different cultures and generations. 
• Challenge your own biases: We all have biases, so it’s important to develop awareness of our own to begin questioning them.
• Create safe spaces for dialogue: Encourage open communication, where everyone feels comfortable sharing their experiences and perspectives without fear of judgment.
• Focus on common ground: Look for shared values and goals that can unite employees across cultures and generations.
• Celebrate differences: Host cultural events, generational mixers, or team-building activities that celebrate the unique strengths and perspectives of different groups.

Ultimately, embracing cultural and generational diversity isn’t just a “nice-to-have,” it’s a necessity for thriving in today’s world. Let’s continue encouraging open-mindedness, awareness, and appreciation for one another. Can we kindly celebrate our differences?

“It is not our differences that divide us. It is our inability to recognize, accept, and celebrate those differences” — Audre Lorde