The Five Generation Workforce

 

We now have a five generation workforce — that’s right, five generations in the workplace!

Every generation has unique traits that they bring to work. In order to get along, be productive, and avoid conflict, we need to respect and understand all the generations we spend time at work with.

The Youngest Generation—Generation 9/11

Born after 1990, these folks have only seen the world through the prism of the 9/11 tragedy. They have grown up with war and uncertainty and tend to view the world through that lens. They see the world with less optimism then many of the other generations.

Generation Y (Millennials)

Born between 1977-1990, these folks value innovation and change. They are the first generation to grow up with advanced technologies and, therefore, are very comfortable with technology in every aspect of their lives.

They also tend to be opinionated, but are very creative and expect to be challenged. They have far more confidence than Generation 9/11 as they grew up in very stable times. See this blog post—Working With Generation Y

Generation X is the Middle Generation

Born between 1965 and 1977, these folks prefer and value a work-life balance. They were raised by Baby Boomers who worked long hours and were the first generation to have wide spread divorce. Therefore, Generation Xers are very independent and dislike rigid schedules.

They value being efficient and getting work done quickly. They have more balance between their social and work lives than their predecessors and they ushered in a more creative, open workplace.

Baby Boomers

Born between 1946-1964, they were born during the booming, optimistic times post World War II. The value loyalty, hard work and long hours as the means to success and, thus, work ethic is extremely important to them.

Boomers need to be noticed for their hard work. When dealing with other generations, Boomers need to make sure they are very upfront and specific with their instructions.

The Oldest Generation—Traditionals

Born between 1930-1945, these folks are also known as the “Silent Generation.” They possess hard work values and are very socially and fiscally conservative.

Traditionals fear that they will be replaced by younger generations. Many are still in the workforce because they enjoy working, but some are there for financial reasons and have postponed their retirement. Their life experience and wisdom gives them a lot to offer.

Treating each each generation with understanding and respect is the first step in positive relationships between generations. Each generation has a lot to offer and when they work together the diversity of the generations makes for a much more productive workplace.

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