Headlines frequently appear that purport to highlight the differences among workers of different generations and explain how employers can manage the wants and needs of each generation. But is each new generation really that different from previous ones? Are there fundamental differences among generations that impact how they act and interact in the workplace? Or are the perceived differences among generations simply an indicator of age-related differences between older and younger workers or a reflection of all people adapting to a changing workplace? Are Generational Categories Meaningful Distinctions for Workforce Management? reviews the state and rigor of the empirical work related to generations and assesses whether generational categories are meaningful in tackling workforce management problems. This report makes recommendations for directions for future research and improvements to employment practices.

Skilled technical occupationsâ€"defined as occupations that require a high level of knowledge in a technical domain but do not require a bachelor's degree for entryâ€"are a key component of the U.S. economy. In response to globalization and advances in science and technology, American firms are demanding workers with greater proficiency in literacy and numeracy, as well as strong interpersonal, technical, and problem-solving skills. However, employer surveys and industry and government reports have raised concerns that the nation may not have an adequate supply of skilled technical workers to achieve its competitiveness and economic growth objectives. In response to the broader need for policy information and advice, Building America's Skilled Technical Workforce examines the coverage, effectiveness, flexibility, and coordination of the policies and various programs that prepare Americans for skilled technical jobs. This report provides action-oriented recommendations for improving the American system of technical education, training, and certification.

Parents around the globe are facing the common challenges of balancing family and work. And the need has never been more urgent for organizations to recognize how having a family impacts an employees creativity, productivity and performance. Here is a useful guide to help leaders implement country-sensitive work-family policies and create family-responsible environments in which employees can carry out their work and still be fully engaged with their families. In nine chapters, Balancing Work and Family: Reviews and addresses the unique cultural, social, political and economic climates in the United States, Latin America, North America, Europe, Asia and Africa; Provides practical recommendations based on solid international research; Presents theory as well as vivid accounts of employee experiences from different geographical regions and cultural backgrounds; Shares examples and business cases illustrating best practices from companies in these regions. The books perspective is truly global, with chapters written by international authors. It brings together a diverse team including an academic expert who has conducted rigorous studies on work family conflict, a lawyer who addresses the legal environment in some countries and a practitioner with hands-on experience with real employers and employees. Each chapter presents an overview of the factors in a specific region impacting work-family integration, the main challenges to individuals and organizations, solutions companies have implemented and many examples of the processes companies use to foster family-responsible cultures. The authors make a strong case that it is the job organizational leaders not HR professionals to direct change in this important area.

Thrive in the new economy by leading ahead of the next evolution Reimagining Work is the business leader's guide to surviving—and thriving—in the new on-demand economy. As the business and workplace environments evolve, traditional management strategies are becoming obsolete; the skilled workforce demands flexibility and more control over their work—things that the major corporations repeatedly fail to offer. Is it any wonder that the best and brightest talent is increasingly moving toward smaller companies with alternative management structures? Companies like Uber, Lyft, Handy, and Task Rabbit? These businesses have seen major success by attracting the right people—by giving them what they want. As the shift continues, businesses will need to change the way they recruit, develop, and train talent. This book shows you how to restructure and reconfigure your current strategy toward one that will help your business not just survive, but grow stronger in this new environment by offering what top talent demands. Niche spaces like transportation and general labor may have catalyzed the movement toward on-demand, but their influence is spreading and traditional businesses must adapt or die. This book shows you how to turn the shift into an asset for your company by leading through change for the better. Reconsider your current talent sourcing strategies Update your team development and training programs Build a flexible workforce that thrives in the "on-demand" economy Develop your business to succeed amidst the changing business paradigm Growth is more than just expansion; it's also maturation, adaptation, and evolution. Our economy is on the cusp of a seismic shift, and smart businesses will implement change early before the obsolete start falling behind. Reimagining Work gives you actionable guidance for staying ahead of the curve.