Managers must discern the different working styles of Gens X and Y, and tailor how they work with each group,

Because many Xers work well independently, Cam Marston, a Mobile, Ala.-based consultant specializing in multigenerational communications, suggests giving them projects and assignments to do on their own.

"Gen X, with their carpe diem mentality, decided that enduring a poor manager isn't worth the effort, and they will search to find the right person with whom to work. They have an intrinsic need to identify with this role model or hero, and they will actively change jobs until that person is found,"

"Make sure Gen Yers have a line of sight to the customer. It's a way to help people find meaning in their work-if someone senses they're serving another person, it makes the job more meaningful."