From the silent generation to generation x, y and z: strategies for managing the generation mix

Abstract

Today's workplaces are not only culturally diverse, but also generationally diverse. The Silent generation (pre World War II), the Baby Boom generation (1946-1962), Generation X (1963-1977), and Generation Y (1978-1986), all have different workplace values and needs. This can create a challenge for the manager who works with a generational mix of team members. Today's younger employees have different values and needs than those of their more "traditional" colleagues of the Silent and Baby Boom generations. For example, Generation X and Y employees saw their Baby Boom parents work so much that often family was neglected and, for all of the overtime hours of work, see their parents still struggle with retirement decisions and finances. These were the "latch-key" children and so younger generations want a balance between work and a personal life. They will not give up all of their personal time for the benefit of their employer like their parents. When you examine the various characteristics of each generation and understand their life experiences, you can see what has shaped their roles in today's workplace. Each generation's values are different and understanding these differences, while identifying misconceptions, can lead you to successfully managing this diverse group.