David Stillman

Generations expert, speaker, and writer David Stillman is one of the rare Generation X keynoters on the speaking scene today. Recently named to the prestigious list of Forty Under 40 movers and shakers by The Business Journal, David's blend of honesty, irreverence, energy, and inspiration earn him the highest marks from corporate and association audiences alike.

David is co-author with Lynne Lancaster of the best selling business book When Generations Collide: Who They Are. Why They Clash. How to Solve the Generational Puzzle at Work. David is the co-founder of BridgeWorks, a company dedicated to enlightening organizations on who the generations are in today's workplace and what makes them click, clash and collide.

David's interest in intergenerational communication was born when he was employed as creative director for the multimedia production firm, Integrated Strategies Inc. As he worked with clients like 3M, American Express, Lutheran Brotherhood, and Norwest Bank he concluded that communication strategies that hit hot buttons of one generation often missed the mark with another. Thus began his research on the events and influences that shaped the generations. David's ensuing creative output earned him numerous accolades including medals at the NY Film Festival, the Houston Film Festival, and the much-coveted CLIO Award.

Since then, David has translated his interest in diagnosing generational issues in corporate America into a successful speaking and writing career. His business collaboration with Lynne Lancaster continues, and they are in the process of researching their second and third books on generational topics. He is a sought-after media commentator who has been interviewed for TIME and Parents magazines, as well as on CNN, CNBC and the Today Show.

David began his career with ABC television as an intern for Prime Time Live. He then embarked on a round-the-world trip that included stints as a roving reporter for CBS radio covering such events as the end of apartheid in South Africa and the fall of the former Soviet Union.

David's Presentation at Symposium:

Four Generations of Customers and Clients


How can organizations communicate to one generation without alienating another? How do you teach an old product new tricks? Each generation has different needs and characteristics, and each demands a unique approach geared especially to it. But too few organizations  really understand generational differences.

This lively and topical presentation demystifies generational differences and offers hands-on advice for those who want to think in new ways about reaching people of all ages. It offers strategies that capitalize on each generation's attitudes and preferences. And it shows audiences how generational insights can transform communications efforts. Generation gaps are everywhere, and we can all gain a distinct competitive edge if we get to know who the generations are, what makes them tick, and how to make every generational connection count.

 

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