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Having different generations in the workplace can create conflict, high turnover and cause under par work. Mostly due to a leader misunderstanding each generation’s values. What we value determines how we behave. If we understand their values, we can then learn how to motivate the different generations in the workplace and help shape their behavior.

Compare the Values, Behaviors, and Motivators of the 4 Generations to Understand Them Better:

Traditionalists-Born 1925-1945

Their values are:

•   Feeling needed in the workplace.

•   Having financial security.

•  Believing in duty before pleasure.

Behaviors:  Traditionalist’s values make them more loyal to employers and show them having more discipline and consistency in the workplace. This group may be shocked if someone is promoted who has worked for your company for less time, as they expect to be promoted from job tenure. Knowing this about them helps us understand how we can get them motivated.

Here are 3 ways to motivate Traditionalists:

1. Reinforce that they have a secure position with your company.

2. Give them a sense of loyalty and support from you and other top leaders.

3. Take time to develop them and build the skills necessary to help them survive long term in today’s workplace.

Baby Boomers-Born 1946-1964

Their values are:

•   Working long hours.

•  Needing personal gratification and individual choice.

•  Wanting status/position that displays their success.

Behaviors: With these values, Baby Boomers tend to be more confident in taking on new tasks if they’re allowed to do things their way, and they will measure their team’s work ethic depending on the hours worked.

Here are 3 ways to keep Baby Boomers motivated:

1. Give them more $, a bonus or a raise.

2. Provide them a position with a strong title as they move up within the company.

3. Give them more challenges to utilize their creativity and so they don’t get bored.

Gen X-Born 1965-1985

Their values are:

•  Needing emotional security and positive reinforcement.

•  Wanting a casual and fun work environment.

•  Desires flexibility between work and life.

Behaviors: Gen Xer’s values make them more informal in the workplace. They are very independent workers and they value work as a place to grow personally and professionally.

Here are 3 ways to motivate Gen Xers:

1. Give them recognition and praise more often.

2. Provide them with a flexible schedule.

3. Give them opportunities to learn and grow.

Gen. Y/Millennials-Born 1986-2005

Their values are:

•  Having an entrepreneurial spirit with a high need to start movements.

•  Wanting instant gratification.

•  Having an “everybody wins” attitude.

Behaviors: Due to their entrepreneurial spirit, you will often find millennials are very concerned to help a community start a movement; such as recycling. You will also find them showing that self-expression is more important than self-control. Their expression helps them feel a sense of accomplishment, and if you allow them to reach for the stars, they will be very dedicated to you for helping them achieve their goals.

Here are 3 ways to motivate Gen. Y/Millennials:

1. Give them a greater sense of purpose beyond the organization. (volunteer opportunities)

2. Provide them with ways to win on a daily basis. (company/personal goals)

3. Use up to date technology to train them and help them be more successful. (webinars, podcasts, etc..)

When you know what to expect from each generation, you can meet their needs and get them to work better together.