I am working on some training for our employees on working with generations in the workplace. We have typically an older workforce (traditionalists and older boomers) who are managing younger folks and really struggling to "relate" to their generational "issues." For example, they complain that the younger workers are "always" on their cell phones, every break, through lunch, as they travel across sites, etc. They see them as slackers who really don't care about the job.

If the younger guy is the manager - well then they are dealing with the older guy who thinks he knows better, he's been here longer, we've always done it this way...

I'm trying to find an activity - kind of a walk in their shoes activites - for both sides of this fence. I really want to create an experience for everyone who attends this program to see it from a different perspective, but I know that will be difficult becuase there is no way to take off the generational glasses if you will...

wondering if anyone might have a suggestion for an activity of this sort - I will be following it with a very large debreifing discussion - I think...program is still coming together.

Cyndi,

I have a great powerpoint from Rand Fandrich of the Expatriate Foundation that includes case studies that can be used as exercises in training.

I wasn't able to attach the file, but if you email me I'll send it to you.

I hope you find it useful.
jday@safmt.org