Shawna Schuh, Presenter, Author and Consultant

Profitable People Skills

Generational Graciousness

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Generational Graciousness

By Shawna Schuh, CSP

It seems that today the rule is to break all the rules! Unfortunately, when it comes to how we treat one another, some people don't even know the rules. Or maybe one generation knows them and another generation doesn't. This can lead to challenges, upsets, miscommunication and lack of fluidity in interpersonal communications.

The only way this challenge can be overcome is to return to a few basics that aren't so much about strict etiquette rules, but more about good old-fashion kindness. This will keep the courtesy going and make working around multigenerational mixes more productive and profitable.

The First Basic: Respect:

We all want respect, no matter what age we are. Not only for what we can contribute but also for the simple fact that we have survived for any length of time. The more mature worker may feel that the years they have put in have earned them respect, while the younger worker feels their skills and newly acquired education earn them respect. Both are right. The challenge is not to think that one is better than the other in terms of who deserves more respect. The key is to know that each person, no matter how long they've worked or how adept their skill set, deserves respect, because we are all experiencing the human condition.

Courteous people treat everyone with respect regardless of age, gender, status or position by doing the following:

1. Call people by their formal name when meeting them for the first time unless you are introduced to them by only their first name. Otherwise address everyone formally until they ask you to use their first name. Do this with everyone you meet, it's a sign of respect and it's ageless.

2. Introduce everyone, no matter who they are. If you want to break down barriers, between different ages groups, genders and nationalities, you need to make people feel valued. The best way to do this is to introduce people to each other whenever the opportunity presents itself. Always over-introduce and you will show your etiquette savvy and important allies too.

3. Be the first to extend your hand for a handshake, and look the person in the eye. This small act of courtesy goes a long way in making sure all generations work well together. In today's more casual society some people have forgotten this very important gesture. Everyone needs to learn to give a good handshake that conveys the message, "Welcome! I'm open to engage in conversation with you!" If you have a wimpy handshake, work on improving it since this gesture will backfire if instead of showing your confidence and charm you show your lack of it.

4. Say "Please" and "Thank you"! This little courtesy is vital to show respect, make people understand you are aware of what they can and have done, and also to help you in all communications with others. When a person forgets something as simple as a "please" or "thank you" it shows lack of concern for others which is disrespectful and degrading.

The Second Basic: Kindness:

Anyone who thinks that kindness isn't a necessity in today's work environment isn't thinking. Kindness is one of the most important skills in dealing with people of all ages. Every living thing responds to kindness. Use this skill and good things will happen.

A few kindness ideas...

1. Ask others if you can get them something while you're up or while you're out. This will show your willingness to help others and also that you are thinking of more than yourself.

2. Pick up after yourself so others don't have to. This is a kindness no one will notice unless you don't do it and then it will not only be noticed, but talked about and resented.

3. Keep gossip or hurtful information to yourself. This is one of the most beneficial things for everyone. Gossip is not kind. Would you like someone to gossip about you?

The Third Basic: Integrity

When we make a promise or give our word we need to follow through on our word. If we are unable to keep the promise or fulfill the commitment, we must be prepared to make things right. Trust is a fragile thing...very easily broken and very difficult to regain. People who have integrity are people we can trust.

Being blessed with a variety of ages around you is by far the best way to stretch yourself. Learning from the wisdom and mistakes from an older generation is a terrific way to bypass many of those same mistakes. I have gotten further faster by simply listening and learning from those that have already been through it. Enjoying the challenges and changes in your body and mind with those in your age group can make the journey through life a little easier and more pleasant, and sharing experiences makes them even sweeter. If we are also blessed to have younger people around us we have the chance to learn our lessons again by teaching them. We can also see things from a new perspective by becoming involved with different thinking and being pushed to stay alert and vital.

There is a reason for so many generations living at the same time. We are meant to share, grow and help each other. What a gift!

Conquer Apathy and Erase Rudeness as you follow proven, fun and beneficial information by Shawna Schuh, CSP. Specializing in communication, professionalism, service & business finesse. Shawna helps you bring your best self to the work you do for maximum results. To book Shawna to speak or for article reprinting contact Sandy McCready at 503-280-1946 or visit www.ShawnaSchuh.com.

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