CD023 Mediating Inter-Generational Conflict with Sean Lyons

Creative Disruption with Marguerite O'Neal

A professor of Leadership and Management at the University of Guelph in Ontario, Canada, Dr. Sean Lyons focuses his research on intergenerational differences and how they impact workforce management and workplace dynamics. His research has appeared in Time Magazine, CTV News Channel, the Business News Network, CBC Radio’s The Current, and other media outlets.

Dr. Lyons joins me on this episode to share some of the workplace and managerial challenges that involve generational differences. He shares factors that organizations need to address to bridge the generational gap such as the language of values in the workplace and the means of measuring performance. He also shares some thought-provoking results in his research regarding job choices, minimalist living versus growth mentality, and some key indications on why we need to keep looking into intergenerational matters.

“Bridging the gap between values, having people talk about what’s important to them allows you to get to the underlying issues.” - Sean Lyons

Today on the Creative Disruption Podcast:

• Inter-generational concerns that Sean sees in organizations
• Why today is a good time to get into the workforce
• Foreseeing the challenge of caring for the next generation workforce
• The difference on how this generation views diversity and inclusion
• The mismatch between this generation’s skills and capabilities and the responsibilities asked of them
• Why this generation is more entrepreneurial compared to the older generations
• Motivators of Generation X and why they appreciate millennials
• How millennials can empower the younger generation
• Why the ability to step outside of ourselves is another big challenge
• How he mentors the younger generation as he deals with inter-generational conflict
• The connection between general identity and people’s place in history

Sean’s Advice for Future-Proofing Your Business:

• With the rise of anxiety and suicidal attempts, organizations should be getting ready to care for and protect their employees.
• Younger generations want more developmental feedback and directed guidance to do better in their jobs because they want to do better.

Connect with Sean Lyons:

• Sean Lyons Website
• Sean Lyons on LinkedIn
• Generational Career Shifts Book
• Hating on younger generations is so 2013 (and 1983 and 1963 ...) Article on Globe and Mail
• Office of Research - University of Guelph

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