The Remix

May 27, 2019
While most companies are aware of the need for a multigenerational workforce, it’s a struggle to maintain one—but it doesn’t have to be, says public speaker Pollak (Getting from College to Career) in this helpful business manual. Pollak, herself a Gen-Xer, observes that generational gaps in attitude are often part of the problem. To allow all age cohorts, from Traditionalists (the generation before Baby Boomers), to Gen Z, to coexist, Pollak suggests a concept from music, the remix: a constructive approach to mixing attributes from different styles. Describing and debunking the characteristics—real and imagined—of each generation, she guides readers through the crucial topics of accommodating changing views toward company loyalty, shifting from a hierarchical to a coaching model of management, and implementing multigenerational mentoring. Her examples of the remix at work include the “Baby Boomer banking industry veteran gave up his corner office to ‘hot-desk’ at a different spot every day to better interact with more colleagues,” and the “24-year-old cosmetics industry employee who... signed up for a reverse mentoring program that matched her with a company executive.” The topic of generation gaps at the office may seem somewhat overexposed, but readers looking for a cogent, respectful take will find a solid choice here. Agent: Michelle Wolfson, Wolfson Literary.

May 1, 2019

Work environments have shifted radically over the past several decades, and there has been no shortage of think pieces about younger workers challenging traditional workplace norms. Pollak approaches generational differences in the workplace with a more nuanced and positive attitude than most, discussing how managers can successfully navigate issues such as telework, casual dress codes, and open offices in multigenerational teams. Citing research and personal anecdotes from her work as a consultant, the author provides concrete ideas for those seeking to redesign their businesses to suit the modern workforce. Each chapter offers both practical and radical solutions, many based on real-world scenarios related to leadership, mentorship, communication, employee benefits, and other important topics. "Key Takeaways" at the end of each well-structured section make the book easy to follow and to reference later on. VERDICT For managers or aspiring managers, this provides a fresh, coherent perspective on embracing a multigenerational workplace without relying on stereotypes and inaccurate or harmful assumptions about what workers want.--Sarah Schroeder, Univ. of Washington Bothell

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