Employee recognition is a crucial component of any job or project. People want to be thanked. Thank want their contributions recognized and they want to feel as though their input has made a difference. What sets people apart, however, comes from what they find important in their jobs and their individual views on recognition and how it’s handled.
In this five-part series, we take an inside look at each of the generations—one of the easiest way to classify the characteristics of people in America. This includes defining each, exploring what they find most important in life, and identifying the types of recognition each would most like to receive.
The Greatest Generation
Known as Matures, Traditionalists, and the Greatest Generation, these individuals were born sometime between 1927 and 1945. They are now in their 60s, 70s, and 80s, with the tail-end still completing their duties in the workforce. There are remarkable distinctions in this group of individuals. Some of the most common characteristics include:
- An extremely strong work ethic. These individuals were part of the industrial revolution. They lived through the Great Depression and have survived lean times through hard work. They are dedicated to their jobs and their employer and they are deeply invested in their contributions.
- An unwaivering loyalty. It’s very common for members of this generation to stick with a company or employer for a lifetime. Many have only left positions from which they were forced.
- Abide by traditional values. Coming as no surprise from the generation known as the Traditionalists, these individuals love traditional values, a focus on family, the strength of country, and a conformity or unity around the same set of norms.
- Non-techie. This generation is not techno-savvy. While some may know the basics of the Internet and email, most do not and they prefer pen and paper.
Recognizing a Mature
When faced with the task of having to recognize a member of the Mature generation, here are some tips:
- Focus the recognition on the amount of work completed and how hard he or she has worked on a project or in a position. Matures take great pride in their work and will enjoy that someone else appreciates it as well.
- Talk about the commitment to the employer or project and how dedicated or loyal the individual has been.
- Choose an outlet or channel that leverages the values and characteristics of this generation.
The perfect example of how to make this work for a Mature is to recognize him or her for years of amazing service and dedication in a print newspaper or magazine article. This way, not only is the recognition extended, but it’s done in a way the Mature will truly appreciate—non-techie.
The Next Step
If you’ve had the distinct opportunity to recognize a Mature in a newspaper or magazine article, then take the next step by having it preserved in a custom article mount from That’s Great News.
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