The new diversity issue is generational differences and, like all diversity issues, the key is understanding, respect and a willingness to listen.

Elders, Boomers, Generation X, Millenials: they all bring valuable insights, talents, and abilities to the marketplace and, most of all, they reflect the buying public.  Understanding them makes it easier to understand the wants and needs of your customer base. The reality is Viva la difference can translate directly to your bottom line.

Clear communication is at the heart of any organization's success and it certainly is basic to turning the impatience, frustration and even conflict caused by generational differences into opportunities to learn from each other.  But, what do you do when the other person is speaking a foreign language?  That's what many of today's workers are thinking about their co-workers.  It's more than chronological age, it's relationship to the organization, life style, career goals, and, yes, the role of technology.

The articles in this newsletter will give you insights into the generations, including the impact of major events in their formative years, how they see themselves and others, and even suggestions for effective ways of motivating and managing them.

Remember, however, that much as people resemble their generational cohort, they are also unique individuals.