2018 NAEPSDP Conference

With five generations in the workforce, each generation has different ways of communicating, different ways of working, and different expectations from their employers for compensation, benefits, and advancement. These differences between generations often result in tensions and misunderstandings, but differences can provide opportunities for new ideas, unprecedented growth and meeting the needs of our clientele like never before. While not everyone has the title of “Director”, everyone in Extension manages people and programs and we can all benefit by learning how to help each employee reach their potential. It’s also critical that as an employee, we learn how to ensure that our own needs are met in the workplace, even more so in a multi-generational workplace. It’s important to meet everyone where they are initially in order to engage employees. The generation we belong to is one of the many differences we may have with our co-workers. And while these differences can cause stress, misunderstandings, conflict and frustration; it can also be a source for creativity and productivity!