In this expert session, Roy Gluckman delves into the socio-political and economic contexts that have shaped different generations, focusing on baby boomers, Generation X, millennials, and Generation Z. Each generation, he explains, was influenced by unique historical events and societal changes, resulting in distinct characteristics, values, and worldviews.
Generation Z, born between 1997 and 2012, is defined by a deep sense of realism, activism, and cynicism. They use their voices to challenge individuals and systems, influenced by social media and technology, and question the motives of institutions like government, education, healthcare, and big business due to a belief in an inherently unjust world.
One major conflict between Generation X and Generation Z is their approach to work and achieving goals. Gen X tends to have a "do it right, let's get it done" mindset, while Gen Z questions the purpose and why things need to be done a certain way. However, Roy acknowledges that this tension could be due to organizations failing to provide enough consultation and collaboration opportunities for both generations, making it difficult to feel connected to the purpose.
Regarding attitudes towards different generations, Roy suggests focusing on understanding unique perspectives and motivations and working together to find common ground and effective communication strategies rather than creating unnecessary tension within teams. He recommends striking a balance between giving Gen Z autonomy and ownership over their work while still providing them with necessary direction and support to succeed.
To effectively lead Generation Z talent, Roy suggests creating a work environment that fosters psychological safety, autonomy, and transparency. Providing regular feedback and making it a daily habit can help build trust and engagement while valuing employees and allowing them to feel part of the team. Understanding their desire for inclusivity and challenging assumptions about what that means can create a workplace where everyone feels seen and heard.
Throughout the session, Roy utilized the Mentimeter app to engage participants in interactive discussions on various topics. He emphasized the importance of managers fostering relationships, understanding individual needs, and providing meaningful recognition and rewards. The session concluded with an invitation for attendees to provide feedback through a survey. Overall, Roy encourages employers to maintain open communication, prioritize learning and progression, and understand that different approaches exist when addressing the needs of various generations in the workforce.
