As our Employee Engagement Specialist, Jenny Jacobs brings an infectious humor and midwestern sensibility to everything she does. Jenny is a lifelong learner and a natural teacher who guides our clients through a structured employee engagement method that improves bottom lines and results in changes that last. Jenny holds a B.A. in Organizational Psychology from the University of Michigan and is a 2017 Masters candidate for Organizational/Industrial Psychology from Azusa Pacific University. And don’t forget to check out the short video below where Jenny introduces herself and our new program.
By: Jenny Jacobs
Every generation imagines itself to be more intelligent than the one that went before it, and wiser than the one that comes after it. – George Orwell
I recently received an email with the subject line: Transform your bedroom into a master retreat. The thought of this prospect filled my heart with delight. However, I soon realized it would only happen if I were the one who did all the work! I then decided to focus my energy elsewhere…
Everyone loves the result of a transformation, but doing the work to bring that transformation about can seem daunting. Where do I begin? How do I do it? What if it fails? It’s enough to make you resign to the status quo, even though you know the status quo is not as good as it could be.
Are you ready to ditch the old, ineffective ways of trying to engage your diverse workforce? Are you prepared to implement new, transformative concepts that inspire and equip your entire team? If so, I’m excited to introduce our new program called 5 Generations. Side by Side.
For the first time in history, five generations are together in the workplace. Why 5? Here are some converging trends:
- Traditionalists – not ready to retire
- Baby Boomers –’sandwich’ generation supporting millennials and traditionalists
- Generation X – rising executives
- Millennials – the new managers
- Generation Z – college graduates
Today’s managers may have both a 22 year old and a 75 year old on their teams. When things go wrong, generational differences can soon turn into blame:
“They don’t have the proper work ethic!”
“They don’t understand technology.”
“If they would only pay attention I wouldn’t get so frustrated.”
It’s important to appreciate the differences that each generation brings to (and expects from) work, but just as important not to use these differences to reinforce generational divisions. When we focus on the differences of people – whether in terms of age, race, or gender – there is only division.
The 5 Generations. Side by Side. program focuses on setting aside generational differences and bringing people together. By tapping into the power of the Transformative Leadership Model© this program focuses on what every generation wants in their work environment:
- Meaningful Work
- Aligned Goals
- Strengths-Focused
- Learning & Growth
Over the next few months I will be unpacking each quadrant of the Transformative Leadership Model©. If you’re ready to ditch the old and make the changes that truly engage every generation, I invite you to join me to learn more about 5 Generations. Side by Side. and the Transformative Leadership Model©.
