What are some of the traits of each generation?
Considering the limitations of space, we can only present a small sampling of the many observable traits and patterns we see in the generations. Many resources exist for those who would like to delve deeper and/or find more examples.
The Silent Generation (Traditionalists)
Employees recognize the role of authority in a hierarchical organization.
Experienced smooth career passages.
Adopted a “just stick it out” attitude in their jobs (as well as in their marriages).
Expected traditional retirement at 65 —but now may never want to retire.
Tom Brokaw calls them The Greatest Generation.
Baby Boomers
Boomers were beat up by downsizings and rightsizings and have always competed fiercely among themselves.
May have had several careers, employers or types of jobs
Tend to be workaholics and define themselves through work. May have guilt over putting career before family.
Tend to be self-centered and self-absorbed. They personify the “me generation.”
Gen Xers
Saw the layoffs of the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s and distrust big institutions.
Assume that every job is temporary.
Parents suffered fatigue, illness and divorce—want a better balance.
Avoid long hours and keep their work and personal lives separate.
Viewed as being less driven in their work habits and less loyal than Boomers
Skeptical, self-focused and self-protective at work.
Xers seek excitement and want to have fun at work.
Want relaxed rules and a casual dress codes. Prefer e-mail to long meetings.
Will confront or publicly disagree with an authoritative manager.
Millennials
Watched Gen Xers rise and fall before and after 2000 (dot-com bubble-burst)
Want job security
Large in numbers; may need to compete for jobs..
Grew up with protective parents and might fear workplace conflict.
Great at multitasking; can work effectively on numerous activities at once.
Get along with their parents; may live at home for longer.
Thrive in a fast-paced technological world.
