"Who Are You Working With?"
By Janice Vincent, Professional Resume Writer
The latest information coming from the experts discusses the generational differences that affect all of us in the workplace. This not only includes peers and fellow employees, but also the man or woman you interview with when seeking a job. Here’s a brief breakdown of those perceived differences.
World War II Generation
The World War II generation (1925-1945) feel a certain amount of entitlement, but only because they spent (or expected to spend) their entire lives working for a single employer. They felt their loyalty and dedication would lead to a retirement plan and an entire life paid for by one employer. WWII generation employees have been disenfranchised through downsizing and many have lost their corporate benefits and retirement, or these plans have been substantially reduced. Still, it is their nature to remain loyal to new employers and apply their unbeatable work ethic there.
Baby Boomers
The next generation of workers (1945-1965) was also instilled with a strong work ethic, and was the first generation to use technology daily in the workplace. They evolved with technology, but often view it as a means to an end. Technology helped them become the first multi-tasking generation, but most notably, they are driven to perform well and to succeed in everything they do. “Failure is not an option” describes Boomers. For this reason, recognition, promotions and status are very important to Boomers, not in terms of bling as much as being told they’re doing a great job and have a nice home, good car, rewarding job, pay raises, etc. This was forced upon them by the unrest and subsequent disappointing outcome of the Sixties and Seventies. They wanted recognition for a job well done in political movements or charitable service, but found it in business instead.
Gen X
The Gen X generation (1965-1985) was born when the country was still in the grips of various political movements, but not ones in which they felt any interest. Gen Xers have the highest educations in history and many were disappointed when that college degree did not pay off. Because of this disenchantment, their focus is usually on activities outside of work, often something creative like playing video games, drawing (Internet comics, writing, etc.), or home renovation. Gen Xers are interested in gaming and creative technology used as a means of escape from disappointing jobs. Since Gen Xers are mostly trying to escape their work situations, the rewards that are important to Gen X employees are electronic toys, travel, holidays, days off, leave, home improvement, and anything else that takes them away from paid work.
Gen Y
The reason this discussion is important is that a new generation is entering the job market, the Gen Y generation (1985-2005). In a CNN interview of May 18, 2007, an expert calls this generation technologically savvy and entitled because they were raised by child-centric Boomers. Boomer parents and schools got Gen Ys involved in so many sports and after school activities, this generation became the ultimate multi-tasking generation. This was enhanced by advancements in technology that include cell phones, texting and many others. In the workplace, Gen Y employees feel entitled to multiple opportunities, their personal dress code and a specific fit of the job into their lives and desires. If they are unhappy at work, they just quit. They also bring to the workplace optimism, self-confidence and a strong sense of teamwork.
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