Conclusion

Putting It All Together: Making It Work at Work

Millennials and Boomer and Gen Xer management are destined to work together for a long time to come, and the companies that figure out how to assimilate Millennial talent positively and cocreate their cultures for the future will have a strategic advantage as soon as they do it.

Management need not lie down or bend over backward to accommodate anyone of any age to make this happen. But as managers, we do need to recognize that we need to adjust some practices and policies to harness the energy and potential of all the people around us. We must recognize where our people need to adjust their attitudes, behavior, and understanding to maximize productivity and achieve our business goals. It can be done!

Management, we cannot assume that our younger (or any) colleague knows what is expected from her in terms of work product, behavior, dress, or office hours.

• The more we describe what we expect, the less chance we have of being disappointed.
• Likewise, when our expectations have not been met, do not wait too long before providing helpful, corrective feedback in a manner that can be heard. Make sure you have been heard.
• Building an appreciative culture will improve your team’s performance; find ways to share appreciation for people’s efforts and acknowledge good work.
• Find ways to connect with younger colleagues so you have personal insight into how they are feeling and approaching their work. Read what they read; agree to be a mentor; open your door and find time to listen to and talk with your younger team members.

Millennials, if you want a strong say in what the future of work looks like sooner rather than later, you have to carry some of the weight too.

• Pay attention to the people around you in the office. Don’t assume that your interpretation of office hours is the same as your manager’s. Ask questions before doing things you don’t see other people doing.
• Read what your manager reads.
• Take advantage of any training courses that are available.
• Show your older colleagues how to use the apps and devices you use.
• Listen to the feedback given to you. Don’t take it personally: assume it’s meant to be helpful.
• Bring your ideas on how to do things faster, easier, or better forward by first making sure you understand the outcome you need to generate.

In the end, it’s all about people. No one builds a company or career alone. We are all in this together. By bridging the gap between the generations and honoring the strengths we all bring to the table, Millennials and management can cocreate a future-proof business in which people of all ages will flourish.