My generational style is definitely a blend of Baby Boomer and Gen X. By my birth date, I'm a Gen X-er, but my 5 (much older) siblings are Baby Boomers. I like to be kept in the loop with what's going on and email is usually the best mode of contact. But when I'm learning I need to watch the instructor's body language and like questions to be answered in detail with the availability to have a discussion about it. Not just with the instructor, but with the group or class.
I would say even though I'm technically in the Gen X category, I feel I fall more into the style of a Traditionalist to some degree large in part to my parents.
Stephanie, that's great awareness. So, I'm curious, how would this affect your ability to connect with the different styles.
Dr. Jean Norris
Thanks Wendal. So based on this awareness, how are you able to connect with other generational styles?
Dr. Jean Norris
I relate pretty much evenly with all 4 generations. I think that might be due to the heavy influence of all 4 generations within my family and how close we are to each other. It's hard to identify more with the generalities of one more than another.
My style is Genetration X. It's because of my creativity, independence and concern for having a good quality of worklife.
Jessica, it sounds like you use your personal connections in order to reach other generations. What a great technique. Keep it up.
Dr. Jean Norris
I'm generation X, but I feel that I relate very well to both Boomers & Millennium generations. I have 3 younger siblings that are millennium babies and I've always had to keep up with them and their ways of learning and socializing. I also relate well to boomers because I've always been an older soul and I have worked in the professional world since I was very young and learned along the way how many different types of generations relate to work, school & life.
I am Generation X but I can relate with Millennials with my workplace and techlogical advance. It is just to adjust or blend in to each style when a communication begins.
Ferline, thanks for your insight here. So what does this mean when you communicate with other generations?
Dr. Jean Norris
I definitely belong to the Generation X. The rise of technology has transformed the way we communicate. Emails and other means of communication have become an important tool in reaching out to people. In addition, from a contextual standpoint, I have to understand my environment and the situations in which I am through feedback and information. Furthermore, my values and upbringing obligate me to care for my parents, as well as my children. Education, work and other activities are an integral part of the equation, which requires flexibility.
Michael, thanks for sharing this. I'm curious, what about your environment helped shape this style?
Dr. Jean Norris
I'm a Gen X'er without a doubt. I think that it's just a matter of the environment I was raised in.
Sharon, that is a great point. It sounds like you are using others to help you broaden your experience. This will help you gain new tools and resources for connecting with those from different generations. Keep it up.
Dr. Jean Norris
I'm a Baby Boomer, but I am learning something new about myself each day I work with the younger, Millennial Generation. They inspire me to step out of my comfort zone and take more control over how I learn. Also, I do value positive reinforcement in my job. I think we all do. It helps me know that I'm appreciated.
Thomas,
Very interesting! It makes sense that your family influences have impacted your behaviors too. Great mix!
Dr. Jean Norris
Even though I technically am a millenial, I tend to have more attributes associated with a traditionalist and baby boomer. Specifically my work ethic and loyalty. I believe this is true because of the way I was raised by my parents and grandparents, who are baby boomers and traditionalists respectively. Overall I feel like I have attributes from each generation.
Brannon,
Great insight! So how might your preferences help or hinder you in dealing with others who don't share the same viewpoint?
Dr. Jean Norris
Thanks for sharing this Jessica. Family dynamics can certainly play a role in your style too. It sounds like you try to stay connected by using a variety of styles, which in turn will help you build rapport with a variety of people.
Dr. Jean Norris
I believe I am closer to a Generation X'er. Although I am a Millennial, I would rather speak to a person during any interaction. I also have entrepreneurial aspirations and enjoy feedback.
