Generation+S2



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Abstract
Hammill's article “Mixing and Managing Four Generations of Employees”, focuses on the four different generations that are currently interacting in the work force; Veterans, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y. The Veteran's value hard work, Baby Boomers are workaholics who put their best work forward, the Generation X'ers are self-reliant and have a need for approval, while Generation Y are strong multi-taskers, and as a product of the technological age, need instant gratification. Hammill's purpose for this article is to explain how these generations differ, and how it can cause conflict and communication issues in the workplace. This is because different generations have different values and views on such areas as education, family, means of communication, and dealing with money. When these generations are forced to work together, their differences make it difficult for them to come to a consensus and to accomplish tasks. Hammill suggests that being aware of these generational differences and their strengths, can help to avoid those issues and will allow for increased productivity and communication.

Reflection
The main focus of the class was a realization of the four distinct generations. Many of us didn’t register the fact that the four generations – Veterans, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y – were all operating in the same workforce simultaneously. Others had realized this before, but didn’t immediately consider that there were general differences in the interests, communication styles, and management preferences of the generations. The most appreciated sections of the article were the ones which gave tables listing the common traits of each group, and the section giving example situations that people might find themselves in. The natural behavior in the scenarios is to assume that one’s own thoughts, preferences, communication styles, and ideals are universal. The article shines in explaining that this assumption is frequently wrong. We all learned from the article that we will be working with other generations, and that we may need to adapt our cooperative styles to function properly.

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Stephanie Lennon
Abstract The author of this article puts a lot of focus on the differences among different generations. People from different generations will be more likely to remember certain things in history differently. Hammill claims that there are now four different generations (Veterans, Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y) working together at the same workplaces. In this article, he highlights some of the most significant differences: values, communication, education, dealing with money and family. These differences can affect a lot of what goes on at the office. He discusses the basic life differences but also goes in depth for the differences in workplace characteristics. Towards the end, he gives the reader a few work situations to consider and reflect on.

Reflection This article was certainly very interesting. It never occurred to me that there were four different generations working together as one. It’s interesting to consider how different values can truly be. I think the perfect example of this is at a school. There are almost always the Baby Boomer teachers who aren’t willing to try anything new and refuse to take crap from anybody (especially students). Then, you have the Generation X teachers who try to be slightly more hip and get the students to like them. They may look up to the Baby Boomer teachers as mentors. Finally, you have the Generation Y students who are obsessed with technology, but still willing to put enough energy into getting the work done. The Veterans are usually in places of authority, either principal or headmaster, and put a lot of value into being respected and getting the job done accurately.

Corinne Vierkant
Abstract Hammill's article discusses the issue of generational gaps in the work place, and whit may lead to a lack of communication and productivity. Hammill argues that there are four generations in the work place now, the veterans, the baby boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y. Each generation grew up with a distinct history, values, and culture that is different than the generation before and after it. For this reason, they don't always work well together, and will have problems understanding one another, since they can not relate and have different ways of communicating, such as face to face vs. technology and email. Hammill goes on to make suggestions of how to accommodate these differences in the workplace. Synthesis I think Hammill makes many valuable suggestions about how to accommodate the generational differences in the workplace. The main idea behind them is to be flexible and work with the strengths of each generation to improve communication and productivity. Hammill shares a very valuable message, especially as someone who is shortly about to enter the workplace in a few months as a student teacher. It sheds light on why it is hard to find anything to relate too between generations. I am very close with my family, but we do not have much in the way of communication skills and culture in common. My parents were born in the mid 60's, and the values and things such as pop-culture that they grew up with were very different than mine, they still do not like my music, but I am sure their parents did not like their music either.

Ryan Martin
Abstract

This article outlines the difficulties that arise when different generations try to coexist in the workplace. Thee author explains that being aware of these differences can lead to a more efficient and cooperative workforce. He divides the generations into four distinct times: Veterans 1922 – 1945; Baby Boomers 1946 – 1964; Generation X 1965 – 1980; and Generation Y 1981 – 2000. Each generation has its own distinct values and characteristics about family, education, media, and dealing with money. When these generations meet in the workplace, the ideals and differences that exist between the generations can make it difficult to accomplish tasks. The author recommends that being aware of these differences can help individuals of different generations work together more successfully.

Reflection

This article was an eye opener for me. I had never considered the fact that I would have coworkers that were two generations older than me. As a student, my classmates, for the most part, are all the same age as me, generation Y’ers. I realized that I will have coworkers and the administration acts sort of like a boss, but the thought that they are a part of a different generation never occurred to me. This article has helped me understand that, during my teaching career, I will run into disagreements with staff and administration. School is a place where it seems that this could be a problem that gets run into a lot. For the most part, the principal, superintendent and upper administration will all be from a different generation that values different things than my generation, the generation of new school teachers. By recognizing that these disagreements are stemming from the fact that we are from different generations, I can be better suited to deal with these problems.

Becca LaRose
Abstract This article examined the differences between people from the past four generations. Because we are from four very different time periods, there are huge differences in beliefs and expectations. Much of the difference can be seen when all four generations are placed in the work force together. This article outlined the specific beliefs across the board between the Veterans, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y and how these beliefs translate into the workplace. The author reminds all generations to keep in mind that we have all been raised differently within our generations and to remember these differences when working with older or younger generations in order to coexist peacefully.

Reflection From personal experience I have seen the difficulties present when dealing with coworkers that are from a different generation. Many tend not to trust your teaching abilities due to lack of experience. It is hard to remember that they, too, were a first year teacher once. It was nice to see exactly what people from different time periods mean when they ask for certain things. Understanding what a request means from a different experience is really helpful. I think that it is important to understand where people are coming from, and hope that this will be able to work both ways for both me and my colleagues.

Drew Gauthier
Abstract

In this article, Greg Hammill gives a concise yet thorough argument for a new issue taking place in society but, more specifically the workplace: generation gaps. As every generation differs in values, communication methods, and work ethic, among other things, it is a given that they will not always see eye-to-eye. In today’s world, such issues spring up more often than not, as we are now a work force of veterans, boomers, Xers, and gen y’s, all working side by side. Without a doubt, this combination of generations will cause rifts and mutiny but, if we think about how we communicate with one another, these issues can be avoided, extinguished easily, or toned down.

Reflection This article contains some really great insight on a problem I have personally seen. In my personal work experience, I have had to deal with everyone from veterans to other Y’s like myself. In my situation, I take the reigns as a member of management and have the duty of controlling the operation with many different facets attached to it. In my personal experience, I find that when dealing with other generations one must be open to criticism and not show negative response to it, regardless of personal feelings. I have my hardest time dealing with Xer’s, as they typically question and challenge me in the heat of many of the toughest moments I run into. I have found that sometimes the cold method works well too, and that it is okay to remind someone, regardless of their age in relation to your own, that when you are the leader, they are the follower.

Josh Daigle
Hammill begins his article by reviewing today's problems in the workplace between different generations. The workplace today is the first where four different generations are working side by side. For the most part, years ago, the bosses of companies and organizations were older then their employees. The younger employees learned to respect their elders and knew their role was beneath them. Today, the age range is much more mixed with some bosses being much younger than their employees. There is a big issue with generation gaps and communication since each different generation communicates in a different way. For this reason, everyone needs to understand where each generation comes from so that we can communicate better and understand more fully. It is important for managers and leaders in a workplace to get to know their employees and how they communicate so that they can run a successful company.

I really liked this article because it pointed out a big problem in the workplace today. Studying to be a teacher, I have seen teaching styles change drastically in the classroom in a very short amount of time. I know that when I start teaching with new innovative techniques, many of the older teachers will probably not approve. I have already heard stories of this happening. Throughout my schooling, I have experienced a mix of teaching styles from traditional to very innovative and there have been pros and cons with both. As a teacher, I am going to try to use a little bit of both because they can both be quite effective when done right. I believe this article was great in pointing out the problems with generation gaps and how employees and bosses of any workforce need to make an effort to mutually respect each other. By doing so, communication can be much easier and employees will understand each other better.

Ted Gill
This was a very interesting article. In my summer job, which is my main work environment, I work entirely with people in my own generation, excepting our director and assistant director. While I’m hesitant to put everybody into a big group with the same traits, I understand that culture over time does produce certain trends, and the article is not necessarily declaring these as universal truths. That being said, I think this is a fascinating collection of commonalities and differences between generational groups. One reason that this article is great is because failure to notice common differences between generations can definitely lead to protraction of one’s own generational traits. The example about the Gen. Y manager who offered a vacation to a Boomer instead of a bonus is a good example of this – the Gen. Y manager may have preferred a vacation to a bonus, and assumed that this was true for other coworkers and employees.

As a member of Generation Y, I see myself working for administrators in the two generations above me, at least right away when I begin teaching. I will also be working with these generations, in addition to my own age-peers. Given my own interest in working together with other teachers, it is very likely that I will be collaborating with members of other generations. Communication in particular will be a topic that I will have to pay particular attention to.

Sara Cole
Abstract Greg Hammill’s article, “Mixing and Managing Four Generations of Employees” focuses on the traits and compatibility of four very different generations of Americans who are working and co-existing in the American workplace. Each generation has its own character traits. The Veterans are hard working and extremely respectful of authority. The Baby Boomers are workaholics who desire the best. Generation X’ers focus on self-reliance seek approval at every turn. Finally there are the Generation Y’ers who are known for their multi-tasking and need for instant gratification. This article seeks to make people aware of the distinct differences betweens the generations in hopes of creating a more work space more tolerant of varying generations in order to increase productivity and quality.

Reflection I found this article very interesting. I never really thought about the varying generations working in one workplace. I am forever rolling my eyes at my authoritarian, VERY VERY early baby boomer (he is more veteran in his views, except his feeling of entitlement) however, I realize this is how he was brought up. I think the generations need to take the time to get to know the motivations of one another instead of pushing different generations off as “old-fashioned” or “interested only in instant gratification.” Once we are aware of the differences we can use them to an advantage and apply each generations personal strengths to the task ahead.

Dani
Abstract: This article discusses the many differences that appear in the different generations. It looks at what these differences are and what happens when individuals from different generations are forced to interact together. Some of the traits compared are family, work ethics, communication styles, rewards, feedback, and leadership styles. The article also makes several suggestions on how to best get people from different generations to work together. Suggestions include things such as being explicit about how teams should communicate, giving rewards more immediately, providing feedback or giving leadership roles. It focuses mostly on getting different generations cooperating together in the work force. Reflection: Even though this article is geared towards the work environment I think it is also a good resource for teachers. Teachers often have to deal with parents from different generations than themselves. It makes sense that people growing up during different time periods would hold different values. Thus it also seems to make sense that understanding where others values stem from would make communications between teachers and parents easier. I certainly find it helpful to know that some parents would rather I call them then send an email. It is also helpful to know the parent’s feelings towards education. If they don’t think it is valuable I will certainly have a harder time convincing them of the importance of their child’s homework, where as if they do find it valuable I may not need to do any convincing at all.

Jesse Mitchell
The article discusses the idea that now in the workplace are four different generation that need to work together- Veterans, Boomers, Gen X, and Gen Y. All four of these generations have different values, different ways of doing things, different lifestyles. And somehow all of these people need to work cohesively. Hammill discusses how 'back in the day' older workers told younger ones what to do, and they listened. That is no longer the case. The rules of the workplace are constantly changing, and somehow everyone needs to adapt to these changes.

Generational gaps have always been something interesting to me. My grandfather was born in 1918, my father in 1962, and myself in 1988. My grandfather passed away when I was young, but my father never stops talking about him. My father loves to start stories off "Well, your grandfather used to say...". I can see the generational differences in these stories, and sometimes my father tells me of times he disagreed with the generational differences as well. It is something that will always be around, but having four very different groups in the workplace at one time will certainly not be easy. This article is great in making you aware of some challenges you might encounter in the future. But there is also one more thing to remember-- you choose your battles.

Benjamin Kent
I read the article //Mixing and Managing Four Generations of Employees// by Greg Hammill. The article talked about how this is the first time when four different generations are in the same work force. It mentions what is the drawback of each generation, along with the what each generation brings to the table. The four generations are the Veterans, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y. I feel this article is helpful in that we all can learn from each other. Younger generations didn't have grow up in the difficult times of the older ones, and some value of work ethic was lost. I feel like kids today just want to have fun, and either push work back to the last minute, or just put it off completely, myself included. These older generations can teach us to buckle down, and straighten up. While on the other hand, older generations tend to be set in their ways. This is opportunity for, us of the younger generations, to help broaden them to new and inventful ideas.

Andrew Flanagan
This article really presents a valid point in terms of the difference in age and experience as one grows older and more experienced. Personally I have seen the change within myself as I grow older to shift into more traditional and conservative view points as I enter a professional career within a year. Overall I believe that I'm personally a member of generation X regardless of the years provided by the article because that is what I can level with the most out of all of them. Something this article doesn't account for is the other people like myself who have been instilled with a certain work ethic about the things we deem personally important and that the constraints of making this completely a graph of you are who you are based on the time period in which you were born. Though people born in the depression like my grandparents generally live a relatively humble life in which the value of everything makes it so you don't waste. At the same time I know plenty of people my age who are ultra environmentalist and save things and conserve not only for the benefit of themselves but for the planet.

This article seems to be more of a generalization and stereotype about age then more of an active study of how these narratives of individuals are constructed. I'm pretty skeptical because I'd like to base individuals on personal merit and skill rather then have them be classified by a majority. I think that it is wrong for the author to assume that a person is completely a product of their environment while completely ignoring the nature and biological makeup of a person. Also I think we should stop focusing on the differences between generations and start seeing on which points we can connect for within education we can see the biggest lessons we learn are sometimes from the stories and experiences of others.

Greg Hammill’s article, "Mixing and Managing Four Generations of Employees" discusses the differences among generations that are seen through beliefs, attitudes, work ethic, lifestyle, expectations, and motivational triggers. Each generation has their own distinctions. For example, regarding work ethic, Veterans believe in hard work, sacrifice, and respect for authority; Boomers are workaholics, need personal fulfillment, and question authority; X'ers need structure and direction, and is skeptical; and Y'ers are goal oriented, multitaskers that are tolerant and tenacious. This is the first time in history that all four generations have been in the work force at the same time and the implication of the differences between the generations is clear.  While I read this article, I found it very interesting as I related each of the generations to members of my family. My mother is a Veteran, my father a Boomer, my sister an X'er, and myself a Y'er. Talk about a recipe for dysfunction. I can definitely see how these differences in characteristics with respect to various areas of life, can truly create turbulence; however, being aware of the differences can help create respect, consideration, and an understanding among members of the different generations. "To work effectively and efficiently, to increase productivity and quality, one needs to understand generational characteristics and learn how to use them effectively in dealing with each individual."

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