Generational Diversity: Working With Cross-Generational Teams

January 2009-- This is the first time in America’s history that we have four generations working side by side in the workplace. What an amazing experience for everyone in the workforce.....or is it? Cross-generational teams face significant challenges in communication. This can affect time management, conflict management, and overall productivity and in turn the company’s overall success.

How do managers foster a good working relationship between generations?
One size does not fit all when working across generations. The Merced College Workplace Learning Resource Center (WpLRC) has developed a Generational Diversity course in response to employer feedback that addresses many of these issues.

Prior to roll-out the Generational Diversity course was piloted with two local employers, Werner Company and Merced School Employees Federal Credit Union. The curriculum was revised based on direct input from attendees of both pilot classes. The ½ unit class is now part of the Merced College Workplace Learning Resource Center (WpLRC) course offerings and showcased at the college’s Workplace Centers Advisory Committee receiving very positive response from employers in attendance.

Contracts are in place to deliver the Generational Diversity classes to Quebecor World (a printing and product services company), Merced County Office of Education and Merced County. The entire Workplace Initiative of twelve Centers will be able to deliver this training in regions across the state.

The vision and development of this new course was the endeavor of Jonae Pistoresi, a full-time Business Division Faculty member with Merced College. She is well known for her development of the award winning Customer Service Academy classes. “It is the desire of our Workplace Center to develop two accompanying modules, Personality Diversity and Cultural/Gender Diversity to complement the Generational Diversity course,” stated Ms. Pistoresi.

In addition to the Generational Diversity Course a Personality Diversity Course and a
Cultural/Gender Diversity Course will be available this summer.

For additional information please contact Robert Vincelette, Director Merced College WpLRC at (209) 386-6733 or visit their web site at http://www.mercedworkplacecenter.org

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