Old School? New School? - Webinar (02/14/20)

How Generational and Cultural Differences Are
Assets in Your Workplace

Three principles can improve workplace relations and productivity regarding generational and cultural differences in your workplace.

1. The stereotypes we burden different age groups with are pop culture fluff at best. Throw away the stereotypes and pay attention to the human being in front of you.
2. We all have more in common than we think. Look for ways that people can connect.
3. However, legitimate differences can mean a more complete view of situations, more opportunities to serve, more options when dealing with problems, and more ways to reach out to different populations in our community.

How do you take advantage of different experiences, values, and expertise to leverage your library’s success responding to changes in your community or institution?

At the same time, how can your library create a workplace culture that supports productivity and healthy relationships among people with different upbringings, cultural reference points, and workplace experiences? Fortunately, the same guidelines apply whether everyone shares the same birthday and DNA or if they were raised on different planets, starting with your library’s personnel goals, standards, and expectations.

Topics include evaluating your library’s hiring cycle, the role of supervisors and managers, dealing with communication misunderstandings, and ensuring everyone know they work on the same team.

Virtual Trainer: Pat Wagner

Pat Wagner is a trainer and consultant who has worked with libraries, universities, and allied institutions since 1978 and has been a frequent visitor to Florida libraries.

She thinks that most models of generational differences are examples of bad sociology that promote cartoonish stereotypes, and she refuses to reinforce age and cultural biases. Her last cohort of employees ranged in age from 25 to 75 and they got along just fine, thank you very much.

This is an online class. Access information will be emailed one week ahead.

Cost: NEFLIN classes are free of charge for Florida library staff. Registration is required for all classes and NEFLIN members get priority.