Who is this generation “Y”? Do I really have to have them on my team? I don’t want the “old man” either. These may be some of the thoughts that go through team members’ heads when forming a new team. To me, I don’t feel much different than when I was 18, but they constantly remind me that those days are long gone. Mostly it comes when I work with new college students and make a reference to a TV show (one that should have lasting universal appeal) to make a point on a topic and 9 times out of 10 I get the look of a confused puppy. .
HOW CAN SOMEONE NOT KNOW WHO CLIFF CLAVIN IS?
Those gaps may be where generational wars begin! Each generation may feel that the other is messed up in one way or another and that “things” would be better if done the way they should (as dictated by the generation that is speaking). Next, mutual respect, teamwork, and flexibility are quickly replaced with rice bowls, stovepipes, and cold shoulders. When it comes down to the basics, the generation gaps aren’t that wide.
A recent study covering 3,200 employees over a 5-year period found that (regardless of generation) everyone wants to be able to trust the people they work with, no one really likes change when they think they are going to lose. everyone likes feedback and everyone wants to learn. Even when differences become obvious obstacles, teams must accept them. That diversity can be the catalyst for true growth and for expanding into new horizons! To break down generational barriers and get to team basics, try these 3 strategies:
1. Play a team building game.
Anything simple you can do: building a structure from playing cards, an office scavenger hunt, or even a quick game of “Simon Says” can quickly break down barriers, engage people toward a common purpose, and lighten the atmosphere.
2. Share yourself.
Take time at each team meeting to “spotlight” a team member and get to know that person as a person: where they are from, what their hobbies are, and what they liked to do when they were young. Team members will quickly discover how much they have in common vs. how much they think they are different.
3. Make a Freaky FUNday!
Yes, like the movie “Freaky Friday” (old version with Jodie Foster or new with Lindsay Lohan). Take a day and let team workers switch roles and responsibilities so they get a complete picture of what the other is about. A decent walk in someone else’s shoes will generally help with clarity.
It doesn’t matter if you’re a boom, an X-er, a Y, or somewhere in between (like me), each of us brings a common ground to the team and also enough diversity to make the journey truly exciting. So don’t wait … get “Freaky FUNday” with it!
AND!? Because we like you!