Some of the X'ers? characteristics exasperate the baby boomers, but with the right management and motivating techniques, this energetic, creative, and often enthusiastic generation is ready to contribute and has much to offer.
Accept them. Accept them and learn to work with them rather than fight them.
Use Love and Caring. X'ers need to be shown that you truly care about them as people. They often did not get this from their own parents. They need to know that they matter.
Support Them Outside of Work. Show your support for their difficult personal situations. Keep in mind that people pay attention to what hurts them the most emotionally. This is a difficult time for young people. Many times they don?t have anyone who will listen, and they will appreciate and reward those who do.
Don't Baby Them. Generation X'ers crave care and concern. They want you to guide them, but they also want to be seen as independent and self-starters.
Hands Off, But Be There. Give them some freedom and independence. This may seem a bit of a paradox, as this group likes interaction....Set goals with them, and let them create the plan to attain those goals. They crave stimulations, so you must vary the challenges to keep them from getting bored.
Ask, Ask, Ask. Another key to managing Generation X'ers to 'management by asking questions.' Rule #1 is Don't ask unless you have time to listen to the answers. Rule #2 is Don't ask them unless you are willing to implement the changes based on those answers.
Discuss Your Methods. Explain to them how you like to manage, communicate with them, and evaluate them. By discussing matters ahead of time, you gain a lot of insight.
Train and Orient. Meet with X?ers often---even daily. You need to know if they are having problems, where they need help, and if they are happy with their jobs. Training is a key motivator. Develop mentoring programs, also. This increases their loyalty and keeps them on board longer.
Set Specific Standards. It is critical you write out the specific standards of behavior, responsibilities, and policies you expect. This generation is not irresponsible, as some boomers think. Rather, they are simply new to the workplace and haven?t been taught enough about responsibility.
Make Work Fun. Make the workplace as much fun as possible. Sales contests and games work well. X'ers enjoy social events.
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