by Joe Wilhelm Jr.
Staff Writer
People are living and working longer, and the workplace is developing a “generational diversity.”
So how do people who watched television in black and white relate to people who watch television on their cell phones?
This was the topic speaker Cal Jackson, senior diversity practitioner for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Florida, discussed at the recent GrayRobinson Community Leader Forum at the River Club.
Generational diversity is a term used to describe a work force that includes Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y. One of the latest issues in the workplace is how to manage the strengths of a multigenerational workforce.
“People often say, ‘what’s with this generation Y and their work ethic?’ and they are also the people who can walk around texting and not walk into anything because of this inner radar that they have,” said Jackson, jokingly.
The GrayRobinson Community Leader Forum series was created to bring together the law firm’s clients, attorneys and business leaders with elected officials to discuss issues important to Florida.
The meetings are held quarterly.
Jackson may have poked some fun at the different generations, but his job at Blue Cross Blue Shield is to help those different generations work together and he offered facts and tips to help the close to 100 attendees.
“Questions are not confrontations,” said Jackson. “Generation Y is not questioning your authority when they ask why you want them to do something. They want to figure out the best way to reach the goal and they may know a quicker, more efficient way to get the job done.”
Jackson also understands what Baby Boomers are trying to do when they relate an employee’s actions or performance to their child’s.
“Some may say, ‘my son does that the same way...’ While this may seem like praise because you are comparing someone to one of the most prized people in your life, you are still comparing them to your child,” said Jackson.
“And that doesn’t help you connect with your employee.”
This relationship will also change in the future as Baby Boomers reach retirement.
“Generation Y will be competing with Baby Boomers for the same jobs,” said Jackson. “What happens when Baby Boomers retire? They can’t have nothing to do, so they start over pursuing a job they always wanted to do. When they begin these second careers they will be competing for jobs with Generation Y, who are starting their first careers.”
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