We are always talking about the differences between the way baby boomers and Millennials learn, but what about the similarities? The following link shows that these two generations may have more in common than we think:
http://www.businessweek.com/managing/content/apr2008/ca20080430_320434.htm?chan=top+news_top+news+index_managing!@!
When Millennials come across a challenge, they seek an answer immediately, so they find someone within their organization with the expertise to give them one. Usually this person is a boomer, who is flattered to be asked the question and excited to work with someone so eager. Thus begins a relationship between boomers and Millennials, where both parties are learning from each other.
To facilitate this type of learning, corporations should embrace informal mentoring programs, as well as technology like social networking and instant messaging. By cultivating these relationships, companies will also be capturing the knowledge of boomers who may be retiring in the coming years.
How many of you have been sought out by one of these “brazen” Millenials? What was your immediate response when they sought you out? What’s your response now? What have you learned from that relationship?
As always, we welcome your feedback in the Comments section below.
