If men and women are from Mars and Venus per the famous book, Generation Z must be from Pluto. Or maybe it’s the other way around. You are a Zoomer and the Baby Boomers appear from… some other galaxy. Is this but appearance or a deeper reality? Either way, the other-worldly staffer or boss with whom you work may be key to your success. Knowing from whence they come, and more importantly, how to planet-hop with them in the workplace should be on your do-it-now list.
Funny, Painful, or Both
Is there a difference one generation to the next? No doubt, you’ve seen this generational divide humorized in the Progressive Insurance commercials that feature “Parent Life Coach Dr. Rick”. He attempts to guide young adults away from embarrassing habits and outbursts common to their older parents. Invariably, Dr. Rick’s “patients” stumble into their parents’ old school ways, most often by speaking up, reaching out and otherwise engaging people around them. Gen Z would cringe at bumbling conduct over the top. Boomers would see an effort to connect. “What’s wrong with that?” says Boomer. “That’s what screens are for,” is the Z retort. “Ever heard of the internet?”
A broad but not inaccurate assessment… Generation Z grew up looking at screens, not engaging others. They, however, are coming of age as adults and buyers of insurance. Progressive can aid their life (and spending) journey. You get the drift. Forget about insurance ads for a moment, and note generational differences are very much alive and real.
Is It a Bridge Too Far
All of which begs the question, “What should I do with this Boomer?” Or perhaps, “How do I manage this distant and disconnected… what letter are they?” Accepting appearance as reality is a start. I recall a workplace conversation between a bright young man and one of our senior managers about favorite music groups. In a real wait… what moment, he asked, “Who are The Beatles?” He’s yanking our chain, I thought. Not a music aficionado myself, but he surely read about mop-haired men from Liverpool, the Fab Four, The Ed Sullivan Show? “I could almost read his mind… Who’s Ed Sullivan?”
Bridge Crossing Via the Two-Step
On whichever side of the generational chasm you reside, it’s time to cross over the bridge to understanding and connection… for your good and theirs. Do the “two-step” for the best results.
Marching Orders for Non-Kids
Millennials, Gen X, Baby Boomers… your two-step is as follows:
One – Listen and learn.
Two – Build a bigger tent.
Logic: Admit it. The Zoomer who works with or for you can circle everyone in a second when it comes to tech, trends and today’s social currency. You may not prize any of that too highly. But with more ears and less lip, you are suddenly hip to a workforce that is the future. Available to you are resources, or at the least, the experience and expertise to construct a workplace, atmosphere and relationship that is welcoming to these folks from Pluto. You need Gen Z.
Follow Guideline for Zoomers
Gen Z… opportunity, work-life balance, something called happiness and more awaits as you:
One – Go screenless.
Two – See the journey.
Logic: OK… maybe not screenless but how about less screen? Beyond screen time and social immersion, seek real human interaction and connections. If you’re unable at first to venture outside of your comfort zone… just expand it. Eye contact, a handshake, real conversation (picture Boomer listening – see above) will lift your spirits and pave your career path. And while on that path, see it as a journey. You’re going somewhere, right? What shortcomings of your boss, company, position may trouble you today are just that… today’s disappointment. Not a lifetime sentence. You’re on a journey. Stay connected.
Get Some Generational Insurance
Working with others well has always been step one to better employment, and dare we say, success. They taught us that in grade school. We didn’t need or know anything about insurance back then. We know now. And in today’s fast changing, AI-driven economy, the last thing you need is to get hung up on people trouble… as a manager or staffer. The 2025 pendulum has swung back to an unforgiving HR environment. So, buy some insurance. School yourself on connecting in the workplace. With everyone… from whatever planet they hail.
