Unlike previous generations, when workers were often segregated by age and promoted on the basis of seniority, today’s new hire could find herself working with a peer that could be a grandparent’s age. This shift has had a dramatic impact on corporate culture and company performance, since priorities, attitudes and workstyles can vary with each generation. 

For example, “My way or the highway” managers tend to drive Baby Boomers crazy, while “flashy” or “schmoozy” bosses turn off Gen X’ers.  Both the oldest and youngest employees — World War II generation and Millennials — are motivated by awards and certificates. But they differ considerably on preferred methods of communication.

How to attract, retain and motivate employees of all ages and maximize their contributions will be the focus of the next “Inclusion=Innovation” program presented by the Charleston Area Alliance and Ernst & Young from noon-1:30 p.m., Wednesday, Aug. 25 at the Alliance offices.

Click here to register.

Pat Kelly of Steptoe & Johnson will moderate a discussion by “Effective Immediately” co-authors Emily Bennington and Skip Lineberg, and Linda Bunn, associate state director for AARP, on how to maximize the contributions of people of different ages in the workplace to achieve success. 

Business managers, demographers and others have observed generational differences in approaches to employee loyalty, work/life balance and communication styles, among other issues. Panelists will discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by a multi-generational workforce and identify practices that will help individuals and managers work effectively with people of all ages.