Resource Library-Embracing Generational Diversity in Today's Work Environment

Video Transcription

Video Summary

Catherine Landis, CEO of Catherine Landis Consulting, explains why generational diversity matters now that four—and sometimes five—generations work together. She argues that understanding each cohort’s formative experiences reduces costly turnover and improves engagement, productivity, and inclusion.<br /><br />Landis outlines key workplace tendencies by generation. Baby Boomers (still ~25% of the workforce) often value loyalty, long hours, hierarchy, and recognition tied to achievement. Gen X, shaped by “latchkey” independence, layoffs, and early internet adoption, tends to be self-sufficient, adaptable, and more focused on work-life balance than Boomers. Millennials, influenced by 9/11, school shootings, digital technology, and the Great Recession, often seek meaning, flexibility, and efficiency (“work smarter”) while being skeptical of corporate motives. Gen Z, the most diverse and fully digital-native generation, is shaped by social movements and COVID-era instability; they value transparency, pay equity, mental health support, clear expectations, and visible career/salary progression.<br /><br />In Q&A, Landis addresses ageism, hybrid/in-office expectations, salary transparency (Gen Z will discuss pay), feedback norms (build trust and “talk about talking”), and practical ways to build cross-generational teamwork through shared working norms and intentional relationship-building.

Asset Caption

Speaker: Kathryn Landis, MBA, PCC, NDCCDP

For the first time, four and even five generations are working together in and across teams. As people work and live longer, organizations should expect to continue to have multiple generations at work.

This session will highlight the significance of understanding diverse generational values for a more inclusive and productive workplace. It will explore how each generation’s unique perspectives on work, identity, and work/life balance impact collaboration, offering insights into effective teamwork across different age groups.

Meta Tag

Competency Tag QLI3

Competency Tag Description Integrate stakeholder feedback into the quality and safety infrastructure and foster interprofessional teamwork.

Domain Tag Quality Leadership and Integration

Keywords

generational diversity

multigenerational workforce

Baby Boomers workplace values

Generation X work-life balance

Millennials flexibility and purpose

Generation Z transparency and pay equity

ageism in the workplace

cross-generational teamwork norms