The Overlooked Power of Wisdom: Honoring Boomers and Traditionalists at Work

In a world obsessed with innovation and disruption, we often overlook one of the most underutilized assets in the workplace: the wisdom of older generations. Today’s workplace moves fast. We prioritize agility, rapid adaptation, and what's next. But what about the people who’ve been through it all—and still show up?

The Untapped Power of Experience

Boomers and Traditionalists bring something younger generations simply haven’t had time to build:

• Deep institutional memory

• Long-view, strategic thinking

• Consistent mentorship and emotional steadiness

• A strong, duty-driven work ethic

These aren’t just soft skills. They’re cultural anchors. They help teams stay grounded during times of rapid change. They offer context when others see only chaos. Yet too often, we treat retirement as a quiet exit—rather than a strategic opportunity.

Rethinking Retirement as Reintegration

What if we reframed the role of older professionals in the workplace? Instead of phasing them out, what if we folded them in—as mentors, coaches, or trusted advisors?

Imagine:

• A Boomer leading reverse mentoring sessions with Gen Z team members.

• A Traditionalist offering historical insight during strategic planning.

• A cross-generational team where wisdom and innovation walk side by side.

• This isn’t wishful thinking. It’s a cultural shift—and one that’s urgently needed.

Building Cultures of Generational Belonging

In my GenShift course, we explore how to move from generational tension to teamwork. One of the core themes is honoring the strengths of every generation—not just the newest one.

Because when wisdom isn’t replaced but revered, and when experience isn’t dismissed but integrated, we unlock something powerful:

A truly multigenerational workplace where everyone belongs.

Introducing GenShift: The eLearning Experience You Asked For

For years, I’ve had the privilege of speaking at live events about the power of generational diversity. After nearly every session, attendees would ask the same question: "How can I bring this to my team?" Leaders wanted a way to continue the conversation, dive deeper into the research, apply the strategies beyond a one-time event, and share what they learned with colleagues who were unable to attend. 

Now, with the online masterclass, GenShift: From Tension to Teamwork, you can make this valuable material available to your entire organization.

"Dr. Katherine Jeffery’s research and insights on generational dynamics have profoundly impacted leaders at all levels, helping them navigate workplace tensions, improve collaboration, and foster stronger relationships across generations. Now, with the launch of the GenShift eLearning course, I highly encourage my fellow Vistage members to take advantage of this transformative online learning experience and apply its lessons to build more cohesive, high-performing teams."

• Ana Quinn, Vistage Master Chair, Chair Excellence Award Recipient

How Can GenShift Help You Succeed?

Generational diversity is a competitive advantage—when we know how to leverage it. But research shows that while 80% of workplace tensions stem from generational differences, fewer than 5% of organizations actively address them. That’s where GenShift comes in.

Developed in collaboration with SunShower Learning, GenShift isn’t just another training—it’s a dynamic, research-backed eLearning experience designed to help leaders and teams navigate the complexities of a multi-generational workforce. It’s packed with real-world scenarios, interactive exercises, and practical tools you can immediately apply.

From Live Sessions to a Scalable Solution

If you've attended one of my talks, you know I focus on sharing valuable insights and practical strategies that truly work. GenShift brings that same energy and depth to an eLearning format—so you can learn at your own pace and bring these insights directly to your team.

As one learner shared:
"This program is insightful, immediately applicable, and transformative. I’ve learned tremendously from Dr. Jeffery, applying her insights in my firm and with the leaders I work with. If you want to build a stronger, more connected team, GenShift is an invaluable resource."

What You’ll Learn in GenShift

I've taken the best from my live presentations—stories, insights, and pro tips—and packed them into this new masterclass. I'm thrilled to share it with you and proud to say it has already earned a Gold Vega Award for excellence in eLearning courses.

The course is structured around four key modules:
✅ Defining the Generations – Understanding core values and experiences
✅ Roots of Generational Tension – Identifying challenges and how to address them
✅ Lessons from My Research – Insights from my Ph.D. studies on Millennials and leadership
✅ Skills & Strategies for Teamwork – Practical techniques for better collaboration

With 14 real-world video scenarios, interactive activities, and more than 60 actionable strategies, GenShift is designed to make a real impact in your communication and collaboration across the generational divide. Plus, it qualifies for SHRM and HRCI professional development credits, making it an excellent resource for leadership and HR teams.

Bring GenShift to Your Organization

You asked for an accessible way to bring these insights to your teams—now it’s here.

Visit my website or scan the QR code below to learn more. You can enroll as an individual right now or license the course for your team or organization. Special discounts are available for group enrollments, making it easy to integrate into leadership development programs. The SCORM file can be uploaded to your LMS, or we’ll host the course for you. 

I’m excited for you to experience my new masterclass! Unlike the time constraints of live presentations, this course lets you move at your own pace—exploring all 40 modules, watching real-world scenarios, and listening to my commentary when it works for you. Even if you've attended a session before, this immersive experience will help you apply GenShift skills to turn generational diversity into a competitive advantage.

Reach out with any questions about enrollment or organizational licensing—I’d love to help!

From Letters to Likes: The Evolution of Communication Across Generations

Communication has undergone a radical transformation over the past century, evolving from handwritten letters to instant digital messages. This evolution reflects broader social changes and technological advancements that have shaped how different generations connect with one another. By exploring how Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z communicate, we can better understand the shifting dynamics of human interaction and the impact of technology on our social lives.

Baby Boomers (1946-1964): The Age of Letters and Landlines

For Baby Boomers, communication was largely defined by traditional methods such as handwritten letters, landline phones, and face-to-face interactions. This generation grew up in an era where physical mail and personal calls were the primary means of staying in touch.

Communication Methods:

• Handwritten Letters: Before the digital age, letters were the main way to share news, express feelings, and maintain long-distance relationships. These letters were cherished for their personal touch and the effort involved in crafting them.

• Landline Phones: The advent of the telephone revolutionized communication, allowing real-time conversations over long distances. Landlines became a staple of everyday life, enabling regular contact with family and friends.

• Face-to-Face Interaction: Personal meetings and social gatherings were essential for building and maintaining relationships. Face-to-face communication was the primary way to engage in meaningful conversations and build strong connections.

Impact: Baby Boomers value the depth and personal nature of traditional communication methods. The move to digital communication was initially met with resistance, but many have embraced email and social media as extensions of their established communication practices.

Generation X (1965-1980): The Bridge Between Analog and Digital

Generation X experienced the transition from analog to digital communication, navigating the shift from traditional methods to new technological innovations. They witnessed the rise of email, pagers, and early internet communication.

Communication Methods:

• Email: As the internet became more accessible, email emerged as a convenient and efficient way to communicate. Generation X adapted quickly to this new form of communication, using it for both personal and professional interactions.

• Pagers and Early Text Messaging: Pagers offered a way to send short messages and notifications before the widespread use of mobile phones. Early text messaging further advanced the ability to communicate quickly and efficiently.

• Internet and Chat Rooms: The rise of the internet brought new opportunities for communication through chat rooms and online forums. These platforms allowed Generation X to connect with others around shared interests and communities.

Impact: Generation X's adaptation to digital communication laid the groundwork for the future of online interaction. Their ability to balance traditional and digital methods reflects their role as intermediaries between older and newer communication practices.

Millennials (1981-1996): The Digital Natives

Millennials, or Generation Y, are often considered digital natives, having grown up during the rise of social media, smartphones, and instant messaging. Their communication habits reflect a deep integration of technology into their social lives.

Communication Methods:

• Social Media: Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram revolutionized how Millennials connect with others. Social media enables instant sharing of updates, photos, and messages, and fosters virtual communities.

• Instant Messaging and Apps: Messaging apps such as WhatsApp and Snapchat allow for real-time conversations, often using multimedia like images and videos to enhance communication. The use of emojis and gifs has also become a significant part of digital conversations.

• Video Calls and Conferences: With the advent of tools like Zoom and Skype, Millennials have embraced video calling as a way to maintain face-to-face interactions remotely, balancing convenience with personal connection.

Impact: Millennials' preference for rapid and diverse communication methods has influenced how people interact and share information. Their use of social media and messaging apps has created new norms for connectivity and interaction, emphasizing speed and visual content.

Generation Z (1997-2012): The Era of Instant and Visual Communication

Generation Z, the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital age, has embraced a communication style characterized by instant, visual, and immersive interactions. This generation is known for its fluency with technology and preference for platforms that facilitate quick and engaging exchanges.

Communication Methods:

• Short-Form Video and Stories: Platforms like TikTok and Instagram Stories have popularized short-form video content as a primary means of communication. Generation Z uses these tools to share snippets of their lives and engage with others creatively.

• Instant Messaging and Emojis: Messaging apps are central to Generation Z’s communication, with an emphasis on brevity and expressiveness through emojis, gifs, and stickers. Conversations often happen at a rapid pace, with a focus on immediacy.

• Social Media Integration: Generation Z seamlessly integrates various social media platforms into their daily lives, using them for everything from personal expression to social activism. They value platforms that allow for interactive and authentic engagement.

Impact: Generation Z's approach to communication reflects their preference for fast, visual, and interactive methods. Their use of emerging technologies and social media trends is reshaping how people connect and share information, driving the evolution of digital communication.

Conclusion

The evolution of communication across generations highlights how technological advancements shape our interactions and social practices. From handwritten letters and landline calls to instant messaging and social media, each generation has contributed to the rich tapestry of human connection. Understanding these changes helps us appreciate the diverse ways people communicate and adapt to the ongoing digital revolution, fostering better relationships and bridging generational gaps in our increasingly connected world.

@nataliewalls :)

The Employment Experience Podcast

Join Dr. Katherine Jeffery on The Employment Experience Podcast as she discusses strategies for building effective multi-generational teams. Discover insights on fostering collaboration and understanding across generations in today's diverse workplace.

Thanks to Karly for such a great podcast! What an awesome host! Tune in to learn more about how to build an effective multi-generational workforce.

Full episode on Karly’s Website and Apple Podcasts

Stories with Traction podcast! 100th episode: The Generational Shift

So honored to be the 100th episode of the Stories with Traction podcast with host Matt Zaun! Thanks for having me on, Matt. I hope this helps those who recognize the need to be intentional in building a strong multigenerational organization. According to OECD, 95% of employers have not implemented explicit strategies to ensure that their workplace is one where every generation feels included. If we are not listening and learning across the generational divide, we are only going to fall further and further behind. And let's be honest, there is incredible value to be gained both personally and professionally when we create space for every generation to thrive.

https://storieswithtraction.buzzsprout.com/1781130/13860577

#generationaldiversity #genx #genz #boomers #millennials #xennials #generationaldifferences

Gen Z wants your wisdom!

Calling all BOOMERS, GEN X, XENNIALS, and MILLENNIALS: GEN Z would like your wisdom.
I've been asking the generations if they could ask other generations one question, what would it be? I thought I would bring the conversation over to Linkedin. I know so many of you have thoughts on this.
Here is one to get the conversation going:

Gen Z would like to know:
"What does Gen Z do that comes off as disrespect without us knowing?"

#generationaldifferences #generationaldiversity #millennials #genz #genx #boomers

The value of 20 minutes

When is the last time you stopped and thought about if the Baby Boomers in your life feel heard?

One of the things we need to remember about Baby Boomers is that many of them have sacrificed a great deal to get where they are today. The world compelled many of them to work long hard hours so they could not only succeed for themselves but also make the world a better place for their children.

Many Boomers are ready to pass on their wisdom to younger generations but they want to feel respected in the process. I've listened to many say, "I want to mentor the younger generation but they just don't understand everything I had to go through to get to where I am today." This sentiment is especially true for Boomer women.

It is fair to assume that younger generations won't ever really understand what it was like for Boomers during that time, BUT they can take time to ask questions and listen to their stories. If you are a Gen Xer, Millennial or Gen Zer imagine what might happen if you took 20 minutes and sat down with a Baby Boomer face to face (this is how they love to communicate) and asked them what it was like for them back in the day? What did they have to sacrifice? And then you thanked them for all they did to carve a path ahead for you.

#generationaldifferences #boomers #millennials #genx #generationz #hr

LeaderImpact Global Summit 2021

Incredibly excited to be a part of this year’s LeaderImpact Global Summit. Offering insights and strategies for building a psychologically safe space for every generation to thrive is one of my favorite things to do! See you all there.