Episode
Gen Z in the Workplace with Jonah and David Stillman
26:55
Published: Tue Jan 10 2023
Description
Every generation is different, but one thing currently unites Boomers, Gen X-ers, and Millennials: they are all struggling to understand Gen Z. David and Jonah Stillman are a father-and-son research team who specialize in generational differences and their impact on the workplace. David is Gen X, Jonah is Gen Z, and together they are helping today’s leaders understand the new generation. This is… A Bit of Optimism.For more on Jonah and David's work, check out: genguru.comhttps://www.amazon.com/Gen-Work-Generation-Transforming-Workplace-ebook/dp/B01HM27IDK/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=
Chapters
The most important thing in understanding generational differences is to look at the events that shaped each generation as this is what makes them unique.
00:00 - 04:05 (04:05)
Summary
The most important thing in understanding generational differences is to look at the events that shaped each generation as this is what makes them unique. For example, for millennials, not knowing a pre-9/11 world or living through the core aspect of the 2008-2009 recession with their parents at their most vulnerable age has greatly influenced their beliefs and behaviors.
EpisodeGen Z in the Workplace with Jonah and David Stillman
PodcastA Bit of Optimism
The benefits of technology cannot be denied, but it has resulted in a sense of overwhelming stress and concerns regarding mental health.
04:05 - 09:48 (05:42)
Summary
The benefits of technology cannot be denied, but it has resulted in a sense of overwhelming stress and concerns regarding mental health. Gen Z employees, especially those onboarded remotely, struggle with the lack of social capital and networking opportunities essential for career growth.
EpisodeGen Z in the Workplace with Jonah and David Stillman
PodcastA Bit of Optimism
The younger generations and older generations have different views on whether a FaceTime conversation constitutes face-to-face communication.
09:48 - 17:36 (07:48)
Summary
The younger generations and older generations have different views on whether a FaceTime conversation constitutes face-to-face communication. This can make it difficult for younger generations to know when and how to ask for in-person conversations, which can affect their mental health and relationships.
EpisodeGen Z in the Workplace with Jonah and David Stillman
PodcastA Bit of Optimism
The younger generation has the unique advantage of being able to relate to people around the world on a personal level, which can lead to greater understanding and world peace.
17:36 - 22:05 (04:28)
Summary
The younger generation has the unique advantage of being able to relate to people around the world on a personal level, which can lead to greater understanding and world peace. Parents should focus on developing the "what" in their children rather than the "how", helping them develop skills like face to face communication to thrive in a connected world.
EpisodeGen Z in the Workplace with Jonah and David Stillman
PodcastA Bit of Optimism
The younger generation understands and acknowledges the difference between gender identity and sexuality, which still confounds older generations.
22:05 - 25:24 (03:19)
Summary
The younger generation understands and acknowledges the difference between gender identity and sexuality, which still confounds older generations. They also prioritize face-to-face conversations and consider diversity and inclusion as important when choosing a school or job.
EpisodeGen Z in the Workplace with Jonah and David Stillman
PodcastA Bit of Optimism
The key to connecting with younger generations is leading with empathy and curiosity and trying to understand where their point of view or behavior is coming from, rather than judging them.
25:24 - 26:46 (01:22)
Summary
The key to connecting with younger generations is leading with empathy and curiosity and trying to understand where their point of view or behavior is coming from, rather than judging them. We should recognize that every generation has its own unique characteristics and attributes, but they are not strengths or weaknesses.