Marisa and Wayne answer a question posed by Tony Hartsfield asking how to be productive on a multigenerational team. They discuss their experiences on a multigenerational team (and a multigenerational podcast duo), things to keep in mind no matter which generation you're in, and how to ease the tension between everyone.
Wayne Turmel
Master Trainer and Coach for The Kevin Eikenberry Group, co-author of The Long-Distance Leader: Rules for Remarkable Remote Leadership and The Long-Distance Teammate: Stay Engaged and Connected While Working Anywhere, and trainer of remote teams for over twenty years.
Marisa Eikenberry
Web developer, podcast editor, and technology support specialist for The Kevin Eikenberry Group. Has worked on a hybrid team for over 9 years.
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Thanks for the shout-out, Wayne. Great discussion. Lots of good points made by both of you.
As I've changed jobs a couple of times in my 50's, I've noticed an interesting generational phenomenon. Many of my peers at work, those who have better titles and are higher up the food chain, are under 30. While they are "above" me in the org chart, I am the age of their father. I sometimes receive what I call Old Guy Deference: Someone will be sure to hold the door for me, or if we are about to get in a line, they'll defer to me first. It annoys me, but I understand.
But it goes the other direction, too. As the oldest in the office, I try to tell my co-workers when I've learned something from them, or when they do a task particularly well. I didn't do that as much in my 30's as the workplace felt more competitive to me then. I hope this doesn't sound condescending, but I like showing my teammates that the Elder notices their talent, abilities, and achievements.
Tony, thank you so much for sending in your question. I loved recording this episode.
And to your point about letting your teammates know that they’re doing a good job, that’s incredible. I’m pretty introverted in general but when one of my teammates takes the time to say, “You did this task really well” or “Thanks for teaching me this, it helped with XYZ” it really helps my confidence a lot. (And definitely helps combat some imposter syndrome too.) I don’t think it’s condescending at all. Everyone, regardless of age, needs a good “attaboy” once in a while.