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Thoughts on the Christian life in a fallen world

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

Sticking Points - Haydn Shaw

How to get 4 Generations working together in the 12 places they come apart.  There is a foreword by Stephen M.R. Covey and the author has created a workshop by Franklin Covey called Leading Across Generations.  The Washington Post recently called the author a "Leadership Guru."
It is an interesting fact that this is the first time in history that there are 4 generations in the workplace.  Mr. Shaw identifies 12 areas in which there are generational differences, and how to bridge the gap.  Part one is Understanding the 4 Generations, with a chapter on each.  Part Two gets into the 12 sticking points such as communication, loyalty, policies, meetings and work ethic, and how each generation views the subject.
No matter what generation you may fall into, there will be something for you to earn about your own and other's generations.  I found it to be an interesting read and far from a dry book about doing things the "old way" vs. the "new way."  Using humor and personal examples, rather than just polls and opinions, the author keeps the reader's interest.
He begins Chapter 2 with the history of sociological changes that have happened in this country.  This book boils down to one quote on pg. 17 "We all speak English, and most of us didn't grow up in different nations, so this shouldn't be hard." He is right it shouldn't be hard, but frustrations and prejudice can lead to stereotypes, and there lies the problem.
There is a paragraph on pg. 21 about wearing ties in church that is interesting.  The idea of  flip-flops is also seen as a generational statement.
Website for author is www.mygenerationalcoach.com.
I would recommend this book to anyone who wants to bridge the gap between the 4 generations, and find out how they think and view this world, especially in the workplace. It may lead to understand yourself or your co-worker a little bit better.
I have been provided a complimentary copy of this book by Tyndale for the purpose of review.
Published by Tyndale House Publishers.

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