Understanding the Different Generations in the Workplace
“Each generation tends to see the world through a unique lens that forms as a result of the events that were taking place as they were being raised.”
The Traditional 1925-1945
Events affecting this generation:
- WWI
- Great Depression
- WWII
- Cold War
The traditional generation came from a volatile and uneasy time. The country was brought together by war. Women stepped into the workplace to do their part. Loyalty to country and loyalty to each other.
To Motivate a Traditional:
- Show Respect & Honor
- Give Specific Feedback
- Ask Their Opinions
- Set Goals for Them to Achieve
Baby Boomers 1946-1964
Events affecting this generation:
- John F. Kennedy Assassinated
- Martin Luther King Assassinated
- Vietnam War
- Women’s Liberation
- Woodstock
Peace not war. Voices wanting to be heard. Civil Rights and Women’s Liberation Movements.
To Motivate a Baby Boomer:
- Present Growth Opportunities
- Make Them Feel Needed/Valued
- Provide Retirement Plans/Assistance
- Communicate In-Person
- Provide Training & Sabbaticals
Generation X 1965-1976
Events affecting this generation:
- Sesame Street and MTV
- AIDS Epidemic
- First Gulf War
- Duel-career households
- Personal computers/ video games
Time of vulnerability. Divorce becomes more prevalent. Worldwide competition and technological race.
To Motivate Generation X:
- Time Off for Family
- Opportunities to Self-Motivate
- Skill Building
- Combine In-Person Communication with Technology
- Give Valuable Feedback and Encouragement
Generation Y/Millennials 1977-1999
Events affecting this generation:
- Barney
- Rapid technology advances
- Globalization
- High immigration
- Internet and social networking
- 9/11/2001
- Iraq/Afghanistan wars
- The Great Recession
Raised in “everyone’s a winner” environments. Helicopter moms, protecting and providing constant guidance. Success is knowing how to play the game right – getting into the right schools to get the right jobs.
For more detailed information on Millennials within the work place, check out this blog or podcast.