How Zayo embraces a multigenerational workforce
Much has been written about the generations, over the generations. For better or for worse, we hold preconceived notions, and some misconceptions, about the generations we weren’t born into. Generation Z is entitled. Millennials are lazy. Gen Xers are technologically-averse. Boomers are afraid of change.
Zayo’s CMO, Kim Storin (a Gen Xer who wants to hang with the Gen Zs), sat down recently with four Zayo employees across four different generations to discuss their views of the world and the workplace, their values, and their experiences as a part of a multigenerational team. What they discovered suggested they had more in common than the memes would have us believe.
Here are some key insights from each employee.
The Boomer: Steve Smith, CEO: 4 years at Zayo
Steve believes that, despite the bad rap given to many of the younger generations, the value of hard work has been passed down from generation to generation. He sees it in every member of the Zayo team.
As a member of the Baby Boomers, he places solid relationships at the center of any successful business. To build those relationships with employees across multiple generations, he lives by the “3 L’s: Listen, Learn, and then Lead.” Steve knows there is wisdom to be gained from listening to up-and-coming generations, who aren’t necessarily stuck in the old ways of doing things.
The Gen Xer: Jay Nair, Head of Solutions Architecture: 8 years at Zayo
Jay takes pride that his generation bridges a seemingly impassable gap between the Boomers and the Millennials. He excels at “calling an audible” — being able to change the plan quickly when the first one doesn’t produce the desired result.
This, he says, is key to working with people older and younger than you, because every generation has a different communication style. The ol’ “do it because I said so” way of leading, which his generation knows all too well, is now considered neither an acceptable nor effective way to lead. Steve agrees with Jay here, and, as an ex-military man, says: “You can’t lead with bravado like you can in the military. [In a multigenerational business} you lead by understanding, with trust, and by including people in the decision-making process.”
Steve and Jay also agree that rock ‘n’ roll was better in the past. Steve says ‘60s/’70s era. Jay says ‘80s.
The Millennial: TeQuael Walker, Regional Field and OSP Operations: 3 years at Zayo
TeQuael agrees with Jay and Steve about the importance of inclusivity and adaptability in the workplace. He feels that learning diverse ways of communicating is everyone’s responsibility.
Just as he expects his predecessors to hear out his thoughts and his feelings; he expects the same of himself when he broaches something with them.
TeQuael wants to diffuse the idea that Millennials are seen as the lazy generation. Instead, he wants others to know that “we’re discerning, and we choose to invest our time and energy in what truly matters, seeking purpose over mere productivity.”
To Steve’s 3 L’s, TeQuael adds a “G” for growth, without which the learning is virtually ineffective. Once you learn a lesson, you have to apply it. That’s where the change happens.
Generation Z: Maddie Barrett, Product Marketing Strategist: 1 ½ years at Zayo
As one of the youngest members of the team, Maddie appreciates those who have come before her. She understands that being relatively fresh out of college means she simply hasn’t had the time to build a resume of experience and recognizes that without the work of the generations before, her generation would not be able to do the work that they do.
She sees the newness of Generation Z as a boon, giving them a kind of inclusivity and openness that welcomes input from all, regardless of age. She says this also allows her to have a “professional friendship” with her higher-ups, something that was actively frowned upon by older generations. Steve concurs and cites this as a lesson learned from the younger ones. “After all,” he says, “We’re on the same team. Sports teams are friends with one another. Why can’t we be friends?”
Embracing a multigenerational workforce requires listening, learning, and adapting. At Zayo, employees across generations find common ground in valuing hard work, building relationships, and fostering inclusivity. From Boomers to Gen Z, each generation brings unique perspectives and strengths to the table. By practicing open communication, mutual respect, and a willingness to learn from one another, Zayo creates a collaborative environment where diverse talents thrive. This approach not only bridges generational gaps but also drives innovation and success in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape.