There are currently 4 generations present today; traditionalists, baby boomers, generation x, and generation y. Each generation has a different set of core values. While some of these values transfer from one generation to the next, some of the values differ greatly. This can cause a problem between coworkers, and it can also be an issue with people who use your facilities. Everyone has their own belief on how situations should be handled and what is important. It is crucial that we respect coworkers and users; to respect each other we must have an understanding of individuals values.
Traditionalists is the generation that was born between 1922-1945. Currently their age range is about 69+ years old. Some of their core values include: dedication/sacrifice, hard work, conformity, law and order, respect for authority (particularly male authority figures), patience, delayed reward, duty before pleasure, adherence to rules, and honor.
Baby Boomers is the generation that was born between 1946-1964. Their age range is about 50+ years old. Their core values are the following: optimism, team orientation, personal gratification, personal growth, youth, work, involvement, change, and fitness.
Those born between 1965-1980 are considered to be part of Generation X. Their age range is 34+ years old. Diversity, thinking globally, balance/family, technoliteracy, fun, informality, self-reliance, and skepticism are some of their core values.
Generation Y includes those that are 18+. They were born between 1981-1996. They are the biggest generation since the Baby Boomers. About 86 million make up the Baby Boomer generation, while 78 million make up Generation Y. Generation Y core values include optimism, civic duty, confidence, achievement, sociability, morality, diversity, tolerance, and flexibility.
As recreational professionals who want to provide experiences for all age groups, we must keep in mind these values. One aspect that I personally think is important is providing shared use programs. For example, your agency could hold a senior prom that would interest baby boomers and traditionalists, but you could incorporate the youth (generation y). Generation Y could help with decorations, food and drink and be “chaperones” for the night.
It is also important to provide options within your agency. Perhaps instead of having individuals come in to the agency to fill out paperwork for a program you could allow them to call, or set up registration online. By providing different ways to register you reach out to all the age ranges, therefor your attendance for a program may be higher than it would if you only allowed individuals to come in. Many teenagers and young adults would much rather register at home online because that is convenient for them. Baby Boomers on the other hand would be more likely to come in and fill out papers or call.
All individuals, regardless of a specific generation, want to be hear, empathized with, and have action taken. No matter what generation, if someone has an issue you should listen to what they have to say. The next step is to not be rude. You may think what they are upset or complaining about is not a problem, but their values differ from yours. It is important to show that you care, and want to make their experience better. The third step is taking action. You cannot just tell them that you are sorry, you must show them. Actions really do speak louder than words. If you want individuals to continue to use your facilities and participate in your programs this is definitely something you have to do! Bad words travels fast and can ruin your agency’s image. It is up to us recreational professionals to give every generation an amazing experience!
For more information and tips about multi-generations click on the following link:
-AC
3 Rec Girls 