Disclosure:  Good Work NOW! is a weekly, non-commercial public access television show produced at Access Sacramento and is a volunteer effort by me, my guests and crew. This 30 minute talk show features local experts and our mission is to help viewers find a job, develop their career or business or improve morale or productivity. It airs every Sunday evening at 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Channel 17 and streams at www.AccessSacramento.org, with an encore streaming every Monday, 11:30 – 12:00 noon. The purpose of this weekly column in Sacramento Press is to share key points from each week’s episode and invite readers to watch the program if they want more details. If you have any questions or comments or have a story or expertise that will help others find or create good work, please contact me at brianmoffitt@comcast.net or visit our website at www.goodworknow.com.

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For the first time in history, there are now four generations working side by side in the workplace. Each has been shaped by significant events resulting in distinct influences, values and motivations. Whatever your role at work, understanding each generation closes the gaps and helps improve your communication and working relationships. That, in turn, makes for a better work environment.

Author and consultant Terri Bianco joins me this Sunday for a review of these four generations and how their diversity can impact and benefit your work. We look at the events that influenced their values, what motivates them, and what drives their behaviors – in short, what makes them tick. Terri offers guidance for how to best approach individuals from these various generations and addresses the value they bring to the workplace.
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• The Traditionalists, born 1900 – 1945, 77 million. Influenced by the Great Depression and two world wars, this generation’s respect for authority, patriotism and financial conservatism are paramount. Although only about 3% of this generation remain in the workforce, their legacy policies and infrastructures prevail. Terri adds that traditionalists “love to be asked their advice”.

• Baby Boomers, born 1946 – 1964, 80 million. This generation was influenced by the post- war economic boom as well as civil unrest resulting in shared values to expand, consume, challenge and change. Their imminent retirements are expected to leave a significant talent gap in the workplace. Many will probably not retire completely, opting to work part time or serve as consultants. Like the traditionalists, Terri notes, “they also like being asked how to do things”.

• Generation X, born 1965 – 1980, 46 million. This generation was exposed to Watergate, Chernobyl, and corporate scandals resulting in skepticism and questioning of authority: “They don’t necessarily respect authority since they have seen it screw up too many times,” says Terri. Typically, Gen X grew up with both parents working and so became known as “latch key kids,” coming home to an empty house. Consequently, “they developed a strong sense of independence. As a generation, they tend to be flexible, and want portable careers,” Terri points out. They prefer to work independently since that is how they grew up.

• Millenials, born 1981 – 1999, 76 million. This generation has been exposed to technology 24/7. Terri indicates they are “hopeful and want to give back and make a difference.” As with Generation X, Millenials crave more work/life balance. Technologically savvy, they also have a keen desire to give back. Managers would do well to give them challenges and, as Terri recommends, “Ask them what they know. Listen and learn what they have to say. “

The complete 30 minute episode will air on Sunday, June 21, 7:30 – 8:00 PM on Access Sacramento Channel 17. An abbreviated, 10 minute version is available now at http://www.goodworknow.com/Video_Segments.html