The Platinum Rule

Again I learned something new at the McGill MiniBiz Seminar this week. The topic was managing diversity, especially the generational gap between those born before WWII, the Boomers, Gen X and Gen Y.

For both managers of those diverse groups and for members of each generation the recommendation was to remember the Platinum Rule.

OK, we all know the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you". Apparently a pretty universal concept that has worked for many generations. Essentially, treat other people the way you would like to be treated. Seems good to me.

But consider the more effective Platinum Rule, especially when there are large cultural or generational differences to consider: "Treat other people the way they would like to be treated." Powerful concept.