Generational Progression

In a PwC study entitled “Millennials at Work: Reshaping the Workplace,” they found:
“Millennials say they are comfortable working with older generations and value mentors
in particular. But there are signs of tensions, with 38% saying that older senior
management do not relate to younger workers, and 34% saying that their personal drive
was intimidating to other generations. And almost half felt that their managers did not
always understand the way they use technology at work.”
Within the tugs, we lose sight of what matters most. We lose sight of the future and the
value of the past.
Generational: Opportunity Versus Legacy
In this media storm of pointing fingers, we lose two key principles – opportunity and
legacy. The principle of opportunity is one in which we lift up ideas of how to enhance
and solve. The principle of legacy is one in wgeneration tug of warhich we support the
next generation while imparting lessons learned. The commonality between these two
principles is betterment.
Betterment is the glue between generations. We need to find this glue again.
Principle of Opportunity
Most generational conflict seems to happen within this space of opportunity. Younger
generations want the opportunity to use their talent, show what they are made of, and
change things to go in a different direction. Older generations do not want to give up the
opportunity to shape ideas and form paths in the way they desire.
We end up in an opportunity fight of sorts. One generation is fighting to gain opportunity
while the other ones are fighting to keep the opportunities to themselves. No one really
wins in these battles. What wins is stalemate. What occurs is a certain anger. After all,
stagnation stirs resentment.
If it seems like the land of colorful opportunity has turned into a gray wasteland of
sluggishness and bare innovation, this generational battle of opportunity may contain
some responsibility. What gets lost in this muddy mix is that the opportunity can be
larger for all generations if we would just work more closely together.
Principle of Legacy
What gets ignored is the principle of legacy. Older generations are too caught up in
making a point with Millennials, although I am not sure what the point is. Spending the
time to stereotype or hold back potential is a waste. What legacy will older generations
leave by compartmentalizing or, worse, holding back young leaders?
Page 100 of 137