One of the great challenges we face in our personal and professional lives is understanding the generations that follow us.  It isn’t easy . . . and is often frustrating!  We hear about “Generation X”, “Generation Y”, and some propose “Generation Z”.   Who hasn’t been tempted to throw their hands up in despair.

Even though it may make our heads hurt, we can’t give up on this topic.  Why is it important?  The generations that follow represent our future customers and future employees.  If you are a teacher, “the next generation” are the students you engage with on a daily basis.  For those of us that are parents (and grandparents), they are members of our own families!

As I continue to seek to expand my thinking in this critical area, I came across the post “The Facebook Generation vs. the Fortune 500” written by Gary Hamel and posted at opensource.com.  Gary’s name will be familiar to anyone who has studied management principles.  He is a well-respected expert in management, both in theory and in practice.  Gary’s post provides valuable insights into the generation that has/is growing up “online”.  Their view of the world is very different from those of us who did not grow up in a 24/7 connected world.

My recommendation: Take some time to read Gary’s post.  Then reflect on the implications for you, your business, your organization, your school and perhaps more importantly, your family!  I think you will find it well worth your time.

What are YOUR thoughts?  How does the “Facebook Generation” impact you?  If you are in the Facebook Generation, do you agree with Gary’s analysis?