IS COVID-19 A WIN FOR GENERATIONAL DIVERSITY?
“BEWARE THE IDES OF MARCH” has a whole new meaning to me now. Mid-March marked the onslaught of Covid-19 in Michigan. Twenty years ago, we anchored events as pre-or post-9/11. Pretty soon, we’ll all be telling time based whether something happened before the pandemic or after.
In the meantime, I am watching the evolution of generational relationships during this crisis and hoping that the differentiation is about to transform into something more productive.
Such as?
The emergence of the Perennial Generations: ever-blooming people of all ages who continue to push against their growing edge, always relevant, and not defined by their generation.
EVERYONE comes to the table with their unique strengths and gifts, equally respected, listened to and collaborated with to meet the needs of a radically changed society.
Lindsey Pollak introduced me to the new “Perennial Generation,” a name coined by Gina Pell, in her outstanding book The Remix: How to Lead and Succeed in the Multigenerational Workplace . Pollak predicted that the children of millennials would usher in a new era of diversity and inclusion.
But I wonder if we are being propelled into this era 20 years faster?
Why do I say this?
Millennials have earned their seat at the table, by refining work from home practices and the information technology that supports it. They are keeping many organizations afloat during this crisis, no longer the insurgents disrupting everything we hold sacred. And I would be remiss if I did not thank their older siblings, Gen X, for originating these practices.
If this is what Millennials/Gen Xers have done for Boomers, what do Boomers need to do for the younger generations right now?
Answer: PROVIDE REASSURANCE, SUPPORT, AND GUIDANCE
When we boomers decide to let go of our proclivity to judge, demand, and demean younger generations, we can access the real resource we need to share: wisdom. The kind of wisdom that comes from weathering crises over time and finding meaning in them.
Sure, we’ve never experienced a crisis quite like this one, but we’ve been through a lot. And even if we don’t feel the wisdom just rolling off our tongues so easily, the least we can do is listen to their concerns and reassure them that we’re in it with them.
When a Millennial can hear their leader tell them repeatedly, “It’s okay, I’ve got your back,” followed by a personal survival story, loyalty and trust will follow. Even if jobs are being cut, a company’s future is in jeopardy, “It’s okay, I’ve got your back,” can be manifested in coaching, encouragement, and resources to solve problems.
NOW IS THE TIME TO…
LISTEN to the ideas of your younger employees: The future is up for grabs and Millennials can brainstorm, imagine possibilities, and work tirelessly to find solutions when given the chance.
Your job is to help determine feasibility as part of the process — not before experimentation begins
SAY THANKS.
Boomers: Thank the person or people helping you navigate new technology every chance you get.
Millennials: Thank the leader listening to you and offering support. Not happening? Then find an older mentor — fast! You need someone in your corner with more life experience, ready for a virtual cup of coffee, a good ear, and a thoughtful response.
Writing the Next Chapter — Together
So, what will be the post-pandemic story of generational relationships?
PRE-Pandemic: A time fraught with friction while trying to reconcile how social, political, economic, environmental, and technical influences contributed to generational behaviors. Efforts were made to identify generational strengths and mobilize them.
POST-Pandemic: The realization that regardless of our backstory, we desperately need the different strengths each generation brings to work. What were referred to as Millennials and Gen Z are now referred to as innovators, tech experts, and new leaders. What were referred to as Baby Boomers are now mentors, coaches, and teachers. And Gen X? Forever magnificent bridge builders.
These are the new perennials — age as asset and age as irrelevant.
And as for the trash talk: #megeneration, #slackers, #snowflakes #okboomer? Eradicated, just like the virus.
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Contact me:
marycooney@getcreativia.com
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Age will be an asset - Age will be irrelevant