For the first time in America's history, there are four generations of employees in the U.S. workplace. Each employee from each generation comes to the workplace with different definitions of commitment and what it means to be respectful; however, some things remain clear ... we all come with the same desire to learn, do a great job, be respected and be rewarded for producing high-quality work. Exploring the characteristics that have shaped each generation will help defuse tension at work and allow the four generations to learn about the differences, appreciate them and make an effort to interact with members of each generation in a way that suits their communication style and work ethic.