Our recent Sterling Bank Women's Business Initiative Luncheon in Dallas featured the remarkable motivational speaker, author and Gen Y expert, Nancy Barry. Nancy’s high energy, dynamite presentation about generational differences made us think, question, laugh, understand and converse. Each fortunate attendee left with immediately actionable tips for improving our inter-generational professional and personal relationships. And a large number of guests left with copies of her terrific book, When Reality Hits: What Employers Want Recent College Graduates to Know.
Nancy encouraged us to focus on talent and what we have in common in order to capture the depth of experiences and perspectives that each generation has to offer. Open communication, mutual respect and flexibility provide the keys for inter-generational harmony.
Nancy appropriately refers to Gen Y (1980 – 2000) as Generation WHY. They want to know WHY something has to be done a certain way. Hard-working and motivated, they value life-work balance which is quite different from work-life balance. They are the most rewarded, recognized and praised generation.
Gen X (1965-1979) grew up as independent, latch key children. They want you to tell them WHAT needs to be done and WHEN you need it, but don’t tell them WHERE or HOW to do it. They work to live.
Boomers (1946-1964) are willing to do WHATEVER it takes to succeed – which includes working nights and weekends – because they LIVE to WORK.
The only recognition Traditionalists (1925- 1945) need is the personal satisfaction that comes from a job well done.
Nancy may be reached at www.nancybarry.com/.
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