⚡ Gen Z, Millennials, Boomers—Oh My! How to Make Every Generation Thrive at Work
March 2025 Workplace Culture Webinar Series
March isn’t just another month—it’s a time for reflection, learning, and action. As we celebrate Women’s History Month and recognize Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we’re reminded of the importance of inclusive workplaces where everyone—across all backgrounds, experiences, and generations—can thrive.
One of the biggest inclusion challenges today? Generational tension. With five generations working side by side, the workplace is evolving faster than ever. But here’s the real question: Are we bridging the gap—or widening it?
That’s exactly what we tackled in this insightful and action-packed webinar, featuring Dr. Katherine Jeffery, an expert in generational dynamics, alongside Liza Wisner, Enterprise Curator at OpenSesame.
If you missed it, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! Below are the biggest takeaways, most memorable moments, and all the resources shared, so you can jump in and start making a difference in your workplace today.
Key Takeaways
Generational differences in the workplace can either cause tension or fuel teamwork—it all depends on how we approach them. Dr. Katherine Jeffery shared powerful insights into understanding and leveraging generational diversity to create more effective teams.
1️⃣ The Generational Shift is Here—Are You Ready?
We now have 5 generations working together—each with different communication styles, leadership expectations, and workplace values.
The workplace isn’t “business as usual” anymore. It’s evolving rapidly, and adapting to these shifts is critical for success.
2️⃣ Where Generational Differences Create the Most Friction
Communication styles: Some prefer emails, others thrive on instant messaging, and some still like a good old-fashioned phone call. 📧📱📞
Work-life balance expectations: Boomers and Gen X might see staying late as dedication, while Millennials and Gen Z prioritize flexibility.
Technology preferences: Digital-first vs. traditional approaches to work tools can create friction if not addressed.
3️⃣ How to Bridge the Gap & Build Teamwork
Listen before you assume. Stereotypes (like "Gen Z is lazy" or "Boomers hate change") create barriers. Understanding each other’s experiences helps build respect.
Mix up collaboration styles. A hybrid of structured meetings and casual check-ins can help all generations stay engaged.
Encourage knowledge-sharing. Reverse mentoring—where younger employees teach tech skills while experienced employees share leadership insights—is a game-changer.
📺Watch the Recording
💬 Memorable Quotes from Dr. Jeffery
🔹 “The number-one strategy is to communicate, communicate, communicate. If you’re not doing that, you’re leaving a tension gap.”
🔹 “Generational tension isn’t about who’s right or wrong—it’s about understanding perspectives.”
🔹 “The workplace isn’t one-size-fits-all anymore. The more we embrace that, the more successful we’ll be.”
📌 Step-by-Step Guide: How to Move from Tension to Teamwork
✅ Step 1: Identify the Gaps – Where is miscommunication happening in your team? Is it meetings? Email? Work expectations?
✅ Step 2: Shift Mindsets – Recognize that different isn’t wrong—it’s just different. Drop the stereotypes and stay curious.
✅ Step 3: Create Connection Points – Host cross-generational mentorship programs, informal learning sessions, or roundtable discussions.
✅ Step 4: Build Flexibility – Encourage a balance of different communication and collaboration styles so all generations feel included.
✅ Step 5: Measure & Adjust – Keep an open feedback loop. Ask employees what’s working and what’s not. Keep evolving!
📎 Links Shared
🔗 Workplace CultureProgress Index & Free Toolkit: https://bit.ly/optimizeculturesurvey
🔗 Celebrate March with Microlearning: https://www.opensesame.com/lists/detail/1769867?fromSearch=true
🔗 Explore The GenShift Courses: https://www.opensesame.com/lists/detail/2638913
🔗 Future Sessions & Resources: https://linktr.ee/optimizeculture
🗣️ Standout Chat Moments
💡 "YES!!!!!! We have to stop the stereotyping. We need to get to know people as individuals, not lump them into a generational term." – Shari Collins
💡 "Bias is human nature." – Liza Wisner
💡 "I created a section in my team meetings where my Gen Z colleague shares ‘what the streets are sayin’—I learn something new every week!" – Chandra Guinn
👥 Connect with the Community
Want to keep the conversation going? Connect with fellow attendees on LinkedIn:
Frank Gonzalez – https://www.linkedin.com/in/frankgonzaleziv/
Shari Collins – https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharimcollins/
Kenyetta Lewis – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenyetta-lewis-m-ed-cptm-shrbp-06395742/
Dwight Fallin – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dwight-fallin-collaboration-growth/
Lorri Goldmann – https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorrioliver/
Joel Lesko – https://www.linkedin.com/in/joellesko
Damita Brown – https://www.linkedin.com/in/damitarbrown
Kerrin Malatesta – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerrin-malatesta-67504213/
Angela Anderson – https://www.linkedin.com/in/angelamanderson/
Jennifer Curry – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferlcurry1/
Katie Daniels – https://www.linkedin.com/in/katie-daniels-12283266/
Krisshunn Youngblood – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kriss3
Chandra Guinn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/chandra-guinn-7915186/
George Salayannis – https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-salayannis-94bb882a
Jerome Peterson – https://www.linkedin.com/in/0jeromepeterson0
🌟 Final Thoughts
This webinar was a powerful reminder that generational differences aren’t obstacles—they’re opportunities. By fostering open conversations and meeting each generation where they are, we create stronger, more inclusive workplaces.