It’s all too common to size people up based on their generation before we ever give them a chance. We assume intentions, habits, and beliefs based on age, and in doing so, we miss out on real connection and real collaboration. What if we set aside those assumptions? What if we focused less on when someone was born and more on what they bring to the table?

In this episode, Katie Navarra-Bradley, Professional Facilitator and Leadership Coach with Katie the Coach, and Ginny Telego, President of Collaboration Partners, explore the complexities and opportunities of leading multi-generational teams. They discuss the unique challenges posed by differing values, communication styles, and historical contexts that shape each generation's approach to work.

The conversation emphasizes the importance of curiosity, empathy, and understanding in fostering collaboration and innovation within diverse teams. Drawing parallels with horse herd dynamics, they highlight the need for leaders to recognize and leverage the strengths of each generation to create inclusive and effective work environments.

This podcast might just change the way you see your team and the stories you’ve been telling yourself about who they are.

The Leading With Instinct Podcast is brought to you by Collaboration Partners and KatieTheCoach.com.

Takeaways

-74% of the global workforce will be millennials and Gen Z by 2030.

-Five generations are currently working together in the workforce.

-Generational bias can undermine collaboration and trust.

-Understanding historical context is crucial for appreciating generational values.

-Curiosity and empathy are key to effective leadership.

-Stereotypes can negatively impact team dynamics and performance.

-Horses can teach us valuable lessons about leadership and teamwork.

-Knowledge transfer is essential as older generations retire.

-Creating inclusive environments enhances employee engagement.

-We often have more in common across generations than we realize.

Episode Resources:

• https://www.deloitte.com/global/en/issues/work/genz-millennial-survey.html

Chapters

00:47 Introduction to Multi-Generational Leadership

01:59 Understanding Generational Dynamics in the Workplace

06:19 Challenges of Communication Across Generations

13:23 Curiosity and Empathy in Leadership

15:07 Stereotypes and Their Effects on Team Dynamics

18:22 Learning from Horses: A Metaphor for Leadership

21:54 The Importance of Knowledge Transfer

31:47 Understanding Another’s Perspective

37:30 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action

Helpful Links:

Ginny Telego, Collaboration Partners: https://www.thecollaborationpartners.com/

Katie Navarra-Bradley, Katie The Coach: https://katiethecoach.com/