Talking About Generations...
Article 1: 6 May 2025
Handle with care!
There’s been so much talk about generational differences—Millennials this, Gen Z that, Boomers do it differently that honestly, it’s getting a bit tired.
Yes, different generations grew up in different contexts, but when it comes to work, it’s not really about when you were born. It’s about what you want, what drives you, and how those aspirations shape how you show up.
Think about it: Do Millennials really want flexibility because they’re Millennials? Or is it because they’ve realized that work-life balance helps them thrive?
Do Boomers value stability because of their generation, or is it because they’ve worked hard to build something they want to sustain?
Aspirations like growth, purpose, security, and belonging aren’t bound to a birth year—they’re human.
When leaders focus on generational labels, they risk missing the real point - it’s not about lumping people into categories; it’s about understanding what makes each person tick. What lights them up? What challenges them? What helps them feel fulfilled? That’s the real conversation.
So maybe it’s time to stop leading with “generations” and start listening to aspirations. Because when you do, you’re not just managing people—you’re inspiring them. And that’s where the magic happens.
Article 2: 8 May 2025
Focussing on the wrong difference?
Managers love talking about generational differences. Boomers like structure. Gen Z wants purpose. Millennials need feedback. Sound familiar?
But here’s the danger: When you manage by generational stereotypes, you risk missing what actually drives performance—aspiration.
If you assume a Gen Z employee wants flexibility but overlook their hunger for leadership, you’ll lose them. If you assume a Boomer values stability over growth, you’ll waste their untapped potential.
The real mistake? Prioritizing generational differences over aspirational ones.
A great manager doesn’t lead based on a birth year. They lead by understanding what their people want—challenge, recognition, growth, purpose—and creating an environment where they can thrive.
Manage the aspiration, not the age. Otherwise, you’re just playing a guessing game with your talent.
Written by Mark Deavall
If you would like to talk to me, please call me on +2782 465 5481 or email me on markd@markdeavall.com
© All articles are protected by copyright and may not be duplicated or republished in full or in part, without the express written permission of Mark Deavall. You are welcome to share this article with anyone, up to and including this line.