Date of Award

1-1-2012

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Specialization

Communication and Leadership

School or Department

School of Leadership Studies

First Advisor

Dr. Carolyn Cunningham

Second Advisor

Dr. Alexa Dare

Abstract

Today's business market is experiencing several trends such as organizational restructuring, corporate takeovers, changes in technology, mid-life career changes becoming more common, older employees choosing partial retirement rather than full retirement and the aging oftoday's largest workforce. As a result, the business community is faced with a new dynamic environment comprised ofmulti-generational difference and it is imperative that managers understand the generational differences and use their knowledge as a tool to create more employee productivity, innovation and loyalty (Fogg. 2009). This thesis used Constructive-Development Theory and Generational Cohort Theory to guide this research. Survey results concluded that managers did observe generational differences amongst their teams that could have resulted in conflict if left unhandled. Results also found that generational diversity training would be beneficial to managers and employees alike. Additionally, there is no one communication method that satisfies the needs ofemployees ofevery generation. However, understanding multi-generational teams' needs and preferences and ensuring the team understands these, can lead to a more successful workplace. This thesis found three pertinent best practices for managers to adopt to improve efficiency and employee satisfaction among multi-generational teams. First, an open dialogue ofcommunication preferences amongst the team needs to occur on a regular basis. Second, managers need to take the time to understand the strengths and weaknesses ofeach employee to help the employee grow personally and professionally. Lastly, organizations need to offer continuing education in various formats (i.e. webinar, classroom setting, one-on-ones, videoconferences) that appeal to career growth as well as diversity training.

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