In Jason Dorsey’s keynote, Crossing the Generational Divide: Unexpected Discoveries and Practical Solutions to Unlock Performance Across Generations, he sheds light on issues contributing to the generational divide in the work force and how to overcome them. Three things he highlights are: 

The perception of entitlement from one generation to the next

Since our behavior is shaped by the landscape we grew up in, we must be cognizant of this in order to better understand one another. For example, baby boomers viewing consistency and stability as important, can at first glance look at Gen Z—who value mental health resources and serving a greater mission through their work—as unappreciative or not hard working. On the flip side, Gen Z may find baby boomers too rigid, or overbearing. Dorsey points out that it is important to see from another point of view to appreciate how each generation can best contribute. Baby boomers' knowledge and dedication, along with Gen Z’s direct passion for the cause and concern for the ethical practices of an institution, can lead to great results once each generation recognizes the strength of the other.

Each generation mostly being shaped by the parenting of the previous generation

Our experiences growing up are directly shaped by our parents. As we all grew up in vastly different generations in terms of technology, political, and cultural climates, we should have a greater understanding of the gaps of knowledge and relatability that exist from  one generation to the next.

Technology is one of the main factors in how we communicate

As Dorsey points out, “Technology is only new if you remember the way it was before.” If technology directly affects the way we communicate, we must be open to receiving different forms of technology as legitimate in its attempts to communicate. One cannot dismiss a form of technology for lack of understanding, as that also shuts down communication between different groups.

By keeping these factors in mind and being willing to learn and adapt to the understandings of others, the differences between the generations can be the strongest benefit any organization can possess.