The Multigenerational Workplace : Communicate, Collaborate, and Create Community

Bridge the generation gap and achieve outstanding results! You might expect the occasional age-related misunderstanding to find its way into the classroom—after all, if today’s kids aren’t exactly from another planet, they’re definitely from another generation. At least you and your colleagues are all on the same page…right? Not necessarily. In some schools, as many as four generations work side by side, and that means countless chances for crossed wires, miscommunication, and perhaps even mistrust. Authors Jennifer Abrams and Valerie von Frank are attuned to these generational differences.  In this book, based on Abrams’ popular workshop, the authors demonstrate how educators can look past their own generational filters to reap the benefits of seeing through a new lens. Focusing on the major contexts in which generational differences play out—including recruitment, coaching, professional learning, and succession planning—this book offers Tools, checklists, and recommendations for collaborating, evaluating, and engaging in professional learning that meets multigenerational needs Professional development activities that cultivate an understanding of generational differences and strengthen workplace culture Real-life stories and case studies that bring the topic to life With this honest, practical, and often amusing look at generations at work, you’ll learn to improve communication, retain staff, and look toward succession—a multigenerational plan for school success. "Few people today are taking on this topic, particularly in the U.S. One of the greatest leadership challenges of this age is how to work across generations. Newer generations are not flawed versions of previous generations—each has its own compelling perspective to contribute. This is the best book to add to an issue that affects all educators and will open up many people’s thinking about leadership." — Andy Hargreaves, Thomas More Brennan Chair Lynch School of Education Boston College, MA