attitude

[Meg]

I work in an industry where I have a lot of contact with younger professionals (well they are professionals in training) and after the last few days I get this feeling that I have 'lost' my ability to communicate effectively with those around 20.

I get along really well with my nephews and nieces (my eldest niece is closer to 30 - I am a very young aunty, seriously!) but professionally I find communication very hard. Often I find that I am having this "I know everything and you cant tell me anything." attitude coming back at me. I remember that I was a little 'up myself' when I was in my 20', and thought that I was better than others around me - but I dont remember being so aggressive in that belief.

Have any others found this in their workplace? (or is it just me......eek if it is!)

[Sandra Fernandez]

I was overbearing when I was in my 20s, very much so. I find that I've mellowed and am more flexible, able to compromise and listen to others' opinions.

Having sat through several "cross-generational workplace" strategic sessions, I can tell you that the younger workers coming into our offices are just going to get worse. Something about an entitlement generation that's been raised to expect, well, everything to go their way.

Can't wait.

And, yes, I do think we did have more respect. Even as an overbearing overachieving brat, I knew there were some lines I was not going to cross.

[kperfetto]

Something about an entitlement generation that's been raised to expect, well, everything to go their way.

I think that sums it up: Entitlement generation. However, I see a lot of thirty-somethings who are a little too "me me me."

[Vanessa]

I agree with the above response of the "entitlement" generation. They expect fancy parties for birthdays, several thousand dollar prom nights, car at 16, newer car at 18 for graduation, basically they expect it all. I remember having to work for all of these things which gives me a different perspective, as well as work ethic.