Creating Your Gen-Blend Culture
This is the second article in a series by Kate Gardner titled, The Age Advantage. Find the rest of the articles in the series here!
I have loved direct selling from the moment I rang my first doorbell for Avon in the late ‘70’s. As my good friend and author, John Fleming, shared in his book Ultimate Gig and the newly released New Economy, direct selling delivers freedom, flexibility and rewards—a massively appealing personal and professional trifecta for every generation!
In today’s marketplace, where trust, authenticity and adaptability drive results, the Gen-Blend model may be one of the most overlooked competitive advantages a company can cultivate.
The Power of a Gen-Blend Culture
By building a Gen-Blend culture that pairs tech-savvy younger sellers with seasoned mentors, you have a dynamic that not only strengthens the company’s “entrepreneurial ethos,” but it also broadens consumer reach and brand awareness across multiple generations.
Younger distributor/entrepreneurs bring native fluency in digital tools: short-form video, social commerce, automation platforms and influencer engagement. They are fearless storytellers and early adopters who thrive in fast-moving, tech-driven spaces.
Their senior counterparts, meanwhile, contribute the art of conversation, patience and relationship depth that can’t be taught through a training module. Together, they create a balance of innovation and integrity that modern consumers find both relatable and reassuring.
How Companies Can Make It Work
For companies, the opportunity lies in intentionally designing systems that make this Gen-Blend collaboration organic, not forced. That might mean mentorship programs that pair new sellers with veteran field leaders, or recognition initiatives that highlight “Mentor Matches” who exemplify the blend of wisdom and innovation. Event workshops and leadership trainings can also reflect this model, emphasizing mutual respect and shared learning across generations.
The results? Field culture that feels both fresh and grounded. Recruiting pipelines that appeal to diverse age groups. And, perhaps most importantly, a stronger sense of belonging that bridges generational divides, turning what some see as an age gap into an advantage gap. AND it means you won’t have to use that “elder/youth” stock photo that only visually represents your company’s culture!
In an industry built on connection, Gen-Blend collaborations remind us that every generation has something to give and something to gain. When experience meets energy, and mentorship meets momentum, the future of direct selling looks brighter than ever—ageless, timeless and collaborative—it’s how we roll!
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