Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials; what a great mix of people, ranging from age 22 to 62+ across the business world. Growing up in the ’80s, I had a Rubix Cube. Unfortunately, was never really good with that item. In recent years, a 6×6 Rubix Cube came out. I would offer that this is a great visual analogy of the complex issue of motivating and synchronizing the efforts of your seasoned employees, management team and your brand-new hires.

So, how do we successfully integrate 3 generations, allowing us to properly leverage wisdom/experience, energy and technology acumen? Well, I do not claim to have the answers (secret sauce), but would offer three tools/practical concepts to “move the ball forward.”

1. Communicate across all spectrums. Boomers love face-to-face interaction. Phone calls are acceptabl; written notes (even email) will generally work. Gen X’ers greatly prefer the phone and sometimes want you to limit after work calls. Millennials (aka Generation Y) are all about email, texting and social media. So, if something important needs to be communicated, vary the timing and platform of your message. Redundancy takes extra time and effort but will help, especially for those bigger companies with a wide range of full and part-time employees.

2. Clear expectations solve most problems. As successful leaders do more often than not, they articulate a specific vision and detail expectations of the department/division/company. Boomers may be hesitant to embrace technology; if that is an issue, be sure they absolutely understand this reluctance may prevent their further progression with the company. Generation X loves schedule flexibility; they are often raising families and crave the opportunities to catch a baseball game or cross country meet with their child. Let them know when it is acceptable and when they need to be in the office. Assumptions can get the best of both managers and staff. Millennials may need mentoring on workplace standards and business etiquette. Give them the benefit of the doubt and ensure someone with more experience guides them properly.

3. Most people want to be appreciated and/or recognized by their employer. This my be a hand-written note from the CEO or department head. Could be a picture with the “big boss” when they over-deliver on a stressful project or meet a pressing deadline. It could be a check for referring a top-notch employee (formal employee referral program or not). Might be recognition on the company’s intranet or newsletter. At the end of the day, simple gratitude goes a long way to improving retention. More often than not, employees leave bosses, not the organization.

Additionally, community service days, mentoring programs and team-building events are fun for all and gives EVERYONE the chance to interact outside of the daily routine. Pick up that Rubix Cube and work with it. Stay with it; be disciplined; ask for help; someone on the team can and will help you solve it! Humility and a willingness to ask for assistance show that you value the inputs of others. In the end, when your team knows you care, they will care more about the bottom line. Thanks for reading!

Happy 4th of July. When you think of this very American holiday, we see images of fireworks, family, friends and food. Before we begin these festivities, take a moment to reflect on a fearless legend of America’s Game – baseball.

After reading today’s article about Lou Gehrig in the Nashville paper (The Tennessean, courtesy of USA Today Sports), it moved me to take a moment to highlight his life, but even more importantly his character. Article link as follows: http://www.tennessean.com/story/money/2014/06/29/good-writing-skills-make-impression/11713669/. Mr. Gehrig was a model of courage, class and consistency. A few thoughts for your consideration.

Courage – I believe a majority of people consider themselves brave, even some would label themselves as fearless. Imagine facing a catastrophic disease today, how overwhelming that can be for you and your family. Turn back time 75 years and think how you might react. All indications are that he faced his battle with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), now known simply as Lou Gehrig’s disease, with grace and determination. The manner in which Mr. Gehrig stood tall inspired a nation and resonates in 2014. His “luckiest man on earth speech” is still well-known today. When faced with challenges in life and in business, may we strive to follow the model depicted by American heroes like Lou Gehrig.

Class – In today’s world, I would offer that our society can sometimes lack in this area. Whether discussing reality shows or the prevalence of social media in our daily lives, certain individuals will make outlandish claims that are often based on little or no facts. I wonder how Mr. Gehrig would be received today. Think it is safe to say that he would conduct himself in the same manner and display the highest standards of personal conduct; just might be slightly more challenging.

Consistency – This is a topic near and dear to my heart. In life, when I sit with clients, friends or family members, it is my deepest desire to be the same person in every setting. Lou Gehrig embodied that, not just on the ball field but in all facets of his life. In business, it seems like many want to work hard for the short-term, when the spotlight is brightest. However, sustained excellence is the true benchmark of world-class organizations. Just last month, the San Antonio Spurs won their 5th NBA title in 15 years. They have the best record in all of pro sports over the past decade and a half as well. Mr. Gehrig’s ability to perform at the highest level for 17 years, working on the biggest stage in New York is simply incredible.

On a day where we mark America’s independence, may we all strive to be classy, courageous and consistent in each and every undertaking. American heroes like Lou Gehrig and Cal Ripken (who broke his record of 2,130 consecutive games in 1995) would likely nod their head in appreciation. Happy July 4th!

I love this life truth: “You can understand a person’s priorities by looking at their calendar and their checkbook.” Do you agree with this? Time is our most valuable resource; once today has passed, those 24 golden hours have passed forever. Additionally, once you spend your money, whether $10 at lunch or $5 for a box of Girl Scout Cookies, it is possible to earn more and at least replace that money expended.

Having spent almost 9 months overseas between 2013 and 2014, my experience serving with many Soldiers that were born after I graduated from high school, has motivated me to take up the cause of “mentoring Millennials.” Let me tell you a quick story…

His name is Derek. He works for a large employer just south of Nashville TN. Over the past few years, he felt the call to serve. At the tender age of 28, he raised his right hand and has entered the Tennessee National Guard. Why is this noteworthy? Because he has a young family and is taking time away from personal interests to wear the uniform and serve our Nation. I am humbled by the example he has set for others to follow.

Which leads me to my takeaway from today. Based on two recent discussions with Millennials, I hear “loud and clear” the desire for mentorship. Topics can include: financial planning, personal budgeting, obtaining insurance, networking (besides Social Media) and many others.

So, I encourage Baby Boomers and Generation X’ers like myself to reach out to Millennials in your world. Ask them if they would like mentoring. If a Millennial, be strategic and reach out to possible mentors. Both parties will benefit from new perspectives.

Anytime we can help one another, that is a great thing. As my neighbor (also a pastor) said over the weekend at a block pool party: “Neighbors should help themselves; you need to know your neighbors in order to be in a better position to assist when needed.” Some great words of wisdom, practical in all facets of our busy, complicated lives.