We currently have four main generations in the workplace. These generations share similar needs such as the desire for professional growth, feeling appreciated, and wanting to work in a healthy positive work environment. However, each generation comes with distinct characteristics that make them stand out from other generations. Understanding those characteristics is critical to help everyone identify with and motivate individuals outside their generation whether it’s as an employee, customer, client or manager.
Baby Boomers (age 52-70)
Live to work
Self worth = work ethic
Loyal to employer
Competitive
Goal-centric
Process oriented
Focused
Disciplined
Enjoy working in teams and proving themselves to the team
Need to know that they are valued
Want to make a difference
Generation X (age 51-37)
Work to live
Crave independence
Skepticism
Focused on results
Think Globally
Adapt to change
Eager to learn
Thrive on flexibility
Education is a necessary means to succeed
Millennials (age 22 – 36),
Fully transparent, shares everything
Do well with detailed instructions
Desire to make an impact
Commerce & conscience together
Value Diversity
Love technology
Education is a highly expensive necessity
Do not perform at their best in a traditional work environment
Find solutions using technology
Gen Z (age 21 -7)
Tech-innate (first generation to grow up with modern technology)
Accepting of others
Make things
Realists
Individualistic
Competitive
Transparent
Entrepreneurial and inventive spirit
Concerned about the cost of education
By understanding the main characteristic of each generation, we can better appreciate, motivate, and relate to individuals across generations.
