In the public debate, the worlds of the so-called baby boomers, Generation X and Generation Y collide again and again when it comes to generational change. The so-called baby boomers were born in the decade 1956 -1965 and raised Generation X. They were allowed to enjoy the hard-earned prosperity of the post-war years more and more. They were allowed to enjoy the hard-earned prosperity of the post-war years more and more. Born in the years 1966-1979, Generation X is characterised by a certain discipline and a decent amount of diligence, which they were born with. But Generation X is not said to have the same inner drive to find great success and fulfilment in their professional lives that the baby boomers still had. This disparity is now continuing with the birth cohorts 1980-1995, the so-called Generation Y.
Pronounced in English, the name would Generation why read. Why means why.
Why
- do i have to try that hard?
- do i have to work so much?
- do I earn so little money?
- does anyone have anything to tell me?
- Is the battery of my smartphone empty again?
These are typical prejudices against Generation Y. After all, the verdict is: this generation is weird.
The worry of generational change
This perception is particularly frightening for the previous generations. Can my daughter, can my son carry the burdens that I have carried as an entrepreneur? Can I expect my children to be self-employed? At the same time, however, it can be seen that the younger generation is approaching the topics of digitalisation and sustainability, for example, with ease and creativity. The start-up culture, with a colourful range of innovative products and services, is being significantly shaped by Generation Y. And experience shows: Once the Ypsilons have caught fire, they are almost unstoppable thanks to social media and their good networking.
Change of perspective
When worldviews of two generations clash ? and this may be particularly challenging in the 21st century ? huge masses do indeed collide. Such clashes not infrequently end in serious conflicts with high emotions. However, it is possible, with good guidance from an experienced succession counsellor, to bring up the different world views and bring about a change of perspective, in an appreciative dialogue. Two things are particularly important here:
- Openness of the previous generation to new ideas of the younger generation.
- Great respect of the young generation, towards the life’s work of their parents, combined with a questioning attitude.
In a moderated and well-structured discussion process, succession counsellors can help the worlds of those involved in the generational change to come closer together without colliding. This can reveal whether the son or daughter wants to continue running the company. Or the whole family decides together that external management, combined with a sale, is the optimal solution so that everyone is happy in their own world. We consultants at KERN are mediators and coaches. Generation change - we accompany you in the process ? is not funny, it is different. More successful.
Picture: fotolia.de
TIPS for further reading:
Company succession in Corona times becomes more challenging
Selling your business - How to increase the value of your business!
