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Hi
We live in a connected world, with more channels of communication than ever before. Isn't it odd, then, that the younger generations seem more remote than ever before in how they keep in touch?
In my observation, it seems as if older generations generally prefer communicating in person, by telephone or email, in that order. Contrast that with kids today, who seem much more inclined to use SMS or online chatting than their elders.
As simple as these differences may seem, they can be the key to explaining factors below the surface that contribute to generation gaps. Understanding these underlying factors can help us strengthen the bridges between generations and exploit the value of diversity.
So in this month's news letter, we present 3 articles to help you narrow the gaps between generations. Michelle Clarke opens with a summary comparing the major generations in the world today. Then Greig Whitton offers 10 tips for handling generational diversity in his article 10 Steps to Bridging Generation Gaps.
We conclude with my contribution, which outlines a simple tool that can quickly model your generational relationships. Use this tool, the generational relatiogram, to help you understand and manage key relationships in your life. Try out the tool - I'd love to hear what you discover about your relationships.
If you want a deeper application of my generational relationship modelling tool and, for an in-person introduction to generational theory, then book your place for the Generational Relationships master class, which I'll be leading on Wednesday, August 13th at The Coaching Centre in Bergvliet. You'll find the booking details in the section below. 
Until next month, when we explore the use of projects to provide strategic discipline in achieving business objectives, keep building those bridges between the generations!
All the best
MASTER CLASS:
Generational Relationships
There is no value in diversity - the value lies in how we handle diversity.
Wed 13 Aug, 6.30 - 9.30pm, at The Coaching Centre, R80
presented by Brent Combrink
In everything we do that involves other people, there is enormous potential for conflict simply because of our differences. If the term "diversity" appropriately describes the collections of our differences, then achieving success, harmony and meaningful relationships lie in how we harness the potential of diversity.
And of all the categories of diversity, did you know that generational diversity is the most reliable in extracting the potential value that lies in our differences?
This master class offers a brief overview of contemporary generational theory. Plus, you will get a tool that helps model relationships through the lenses of both integral and generational theories.
Enquiries and bookings:
Angela: +27 (0)21 715 0525
Mind the Generation Gap
By Michelle Clarke
30 July 2008
I recently witnessed an informal business meeting taking place in the canteen at one of my corporate clients. Intrigued by their interactions (no, Mom, I wasn't staring!), it became obvious that the participating individuals were struggling to reach consensus. I wondered if their obvious age differences were impacting on their outlook. Different generations, influenced by generational trends, are wired differently, resulting in very different behavioural trends. Take a look at this generational map (adapted from Karen Post's Brain Tattoos) and see if you agree.
Read more...
10 Steps to Bridging Generation Gaps
By Greig Whitton
21 July 2008
In overcoming and harnessing diversity, the area most likely to yield maximum results - more than race and gender diversity - is that of generational diversity. Try out these 10 steps to bridge the generational gaps in your team and build on the potential power that the different generations can offer.
Read more...
Modelling Generational Relationships
By Brent Combrink
30 July 2008
In trying to understand our relationships, there's a simple tool called a relatiogram that helps clarify our view. I've adapted this tool to be able to visually categorise relationships being modelled into one of the four dominant generations alive today. Use this tool, the generational relatiogram, to see through the clichéd factors of diversity - race and gender - and get clarity on the patterns in our relationships and how we can mend or strengthen relationships through generational awareness.
Read more...
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