Professionalism

Generational Shifts

February 20, 2008

 

This year’s political primaries and caucuses reflect the same generational shifts that every business in America is now encountering. Young people have decided to become involved.  They are claiming their place at the table. And they want it now. They are more interested in getting things done than in paying their dues.
 
The turnout statistics from Super Tuesday—just two weeks ago—are especially illuminating. After decades in which young people talked the political talk, this year the T-Ball Generation is walking the walk. They no longer holler about change. Instead, they have changed their political habits. Politicians once relied upon young voters’ enthusiasm, but not their votes.  Now, young voters are transforming the political landscape. Just look at the data: On Super Tuesday, among young folks aged 18 to 29, the turnout in Massachusetts doubled; the turnout in Georgia, Massachusetts and Oklahoma tripled; and the turnout in Tennessee quadrupled. This represents a huge shift. Oh, and only one candidate, thus far, has figured out how to harness the energy of this shift.
 

One other generational shift worth noting relates to the voting patterns of the female electorate. Statistically, women aged 60+ are among Senator Clinton’s most ardent supporters. Younger women, however, are just as likely to vote for Senator Obama as they are for Senator Clinton. It’s a trend worth noting. It suggests that young women feel no obligation to vote for the “female candidate” simply because she is the female candidate. I suspect most women, no matter what their age, view this development as a positive one.


 




 



comments powered by Disqus

Related Things You Need to Know

 

When Not to Speak Up
Developing Allies at Every Level

Allyship may be the “missing link” that can help organizations ensure inclusion actually occurs.

 
When Not to Speak Up
When You Need to Get to "Yes"

Because of covid-19, many employers will have a unique opportunity to discern how well their summer hires manage conflict. My contacts indicate that this year’s summer associates and interns have been assigned to group projects. Disagreements are inevitable when any team goes through the process of forming, storming, norming and performing. Additionally, since most summer hires will work from home, they will need to negotiate with family members or roommates over who gets access to the best printer, the extent to which background noise needs to be minimized during Zoom calls, and who and when someone can just walk into their workspace for a quick chat.

 
When Not to Speak Up
Proving You're a Professional During a Shortened Summer Program

Because so many summer associate and internship programs have been significantly curtailed, the students who will participate in these shortened programs must avoid unforced errors. Like never before, summer hires will have very few opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities. How they handle one or two assignments will create critically important impressions.



Learn More

Mary Crane books

Order Mary'sbooksto learn the 100 things interns, new hires and summer associates need to know to succeed.


Let Mary Know

 

Do you have questions or want to see Mary speak at your school/employment? Reach out to Mary for more info.

Contact Mary