Be The Why

So much has been written and said about the generational differences when it comes to work. Millennials want a fun, egalitarian workplace. Gen X'ers want a casual relationship with authority and disdain policy. Boomers want a cordial, non-combative atmosphere. The Mature generation wants an environment where loyalty is valued. Whether truth, stereotype, nature, or nurture, the list of perceived differences is long.

On the other hand, there are many commonalities between the generations of workers that are often ignored, but valuable to know. In particular, all ages of workers have consistently said that they want to make a difference. Why is that valuable to know?

As companies establish performance expectations, goals, and objectives, it's not enough to just say, "this is what we're doing." Today's employees want and need to know "why".

Managers need to be able to explain to their employees how their responsibilities and goals fit with the company's plans. Likewise, the company's senior management owes it to the employees to provide goals and purpose that they can align with and believe in.

Purpose has got to be more than "let's make more money".  Workers today want to know that they personally matter and that what they're doing makes a difference.  How's your company's management connecting what you and your employees do to "why" it makes a difference?  Do you know your "Why"?

Make it happen!

Cindy Sanders Meyer