Generational Labels

The Silent Generation, Baby Boomers and Gen X weren’t aware of their classification growing up. They are largely unaware or unsure of where they fit in or are simply oblivious.

Millennials know that they are Millennials, and Gen Z (pronounced Zee) knows they are Gen Z’s. This is possible because of their access to the Internet and the inclination to label those born after Y2K.

These classifications also come with health warnings or should. They are very Americanised and Western world.

They are also not strict …. people born in these eras TEND to fit into these groupings.

A quick internet search says that Gen Z will make up 27% and Millenials 37% of the global workforce by 2025, which will rise to 31% and 50% by 2035.

graphic showing the four different generations

The Silent Generation

This was the war generation. They were silent about themselves and their experiences and those that are still are now coming to the end of their lives.

Baby Boomers

Baby Boom – 1946 – 1964. Born in the baby boom post WWII. Grew up through the Vietnam War and the Summer of Love. Working adults in the capitalist boom of the 80s. Punks, New Romantics Example: Trump, Biden, Clinton.

Gen X

Gen X – Grew up or was born post-Vietnam. The punk generation. Witnessed the fall of the Berlin Wall and the end of the USSR as young adults/teens. MTV – Generation Example: Madonna, Kamala, Musk.

Sometimes known as the “forgotten generation” or the “latch-key” kids who came home from school to empty houses because their parents were working corporate careers. It was the end of the nuclear family and the beginning of current-day capitalism.

Smallest generation because of shorter time classification, contraception and economic challenges of 70’s and 80’s. Using the USA as an example, 65 million Gen X

Millennials

Millennials – Born in the late 80s and early 90s. Born into the New World order.  School shootings were a thing when they were kids, the obvious example being Columbine. They also experienced Y2K and pre- and post-internet life. Examples Zuckerberg.

Gen Z

Usually pronounced Gen Zee—1994 to 2012—also called the iGen, Gen Zers are the most tech-savvy. They do not remember a time before the Internet, the War on Terror, 9/11, or the 2008 recession. They also grew up as teenagers after the 2008 recession.  If you want to read more about the life of the Gen Z workforce, click here!

Strengths of Gen Z

By tapping into these Gen Z strengths, Boomers can help shape a workplace that’s innovative, inclusive, and ready for the future.

Tech Gurus in Training

Gen Z grew up with smartphones in their hands and WiFi in their veins. They can navigate the latest apps and platforms in their sleep, making your team more tech-savvy than ever.

Flexibility Ninjas

Having faced a whirlwind of economic and social changes, Gen Z is adept at rolling with the punches. They’re the chameleons of the workplace, ready to adapt to whatever curveball comes next.

Work-Life Balance Wizards

Unlike yesteryears’s “live to work” mantra, Gen Z is all about “work to live.” They understand that a happy employee is productive, making them champions of balance.

Diversity Advocate

Gen Z isn’t just talking the talk on diversity and inclusion—they’re walking the walk. They’ll help create a vibrant workplace where different perspectives thrive.

Entrepreneurial Eagles

Gen Z has an entrepreneurial streak, whether it’s side gigs or full-blown startups. Their innovative thinking and can-do attitude can give any business a competitive edge.

Value-Driven Visionaries

This generation wants their work to matter. They’re drawn to jobs that align with their values and make a real impact, which can fuel a more profound sense of purpose and dedication within your team.

Teamwork Titans

Forget the lone wolf mentality—they thrive in collaborative settings. Their love for teamwork can lead to more creative brainstorming sessions and better problem-solving strategies.

Lifelong Learners

Gen Z is always hungry for knowledge. They’re constantly seeking new skills and insights, ensuring your organisation stays sharp and ahead of the curve.

Transparency Enthusiasts

Open communication isn’t just a buzzword for them; it’s necessary. Their demand for transparency can help foster a culture of honesty and trust in the workplace.

Eco-Warriors

With a keen eye on sustainability, the generation is pushing for greener, more responsible business practices. Embracing their eco-friendly mindset can boost your brand’s reputation and attract environmentally conscious talent.

How to Flourish in Multi-Generational Teams.

Workplaces need to adapt to the different work styles that each generation is acquainted with. Baby boomers, for the most part, prefer face-to-face interactions, while Gen Z often prefer communication via screen, hence the nickname of the iGeneration. By applying both these opposing means of communication, you pander to both generations.

Baby Boomers often prefer verbal praise for a job well done, while Gen Z prioritises a healthy work/life balance. They are, without doubt, the inheritors of the workplace, but this shouldn’t diminish its role as a healthy and stable environment for employees of an earlier generation. 

Often considered the most prominent way of fostering a cross-generational workplace is to embrace new technologies, which they thrive in. By embracing software, the generation Quill feels as if you are considering their skill sets and adapting your workplace around it, fostering a feeling of validation.

Additionally, technology training courses should be offered to older generations who are not as well versed in the tech aspects; that way, they will not feel alienated from their Gen Z counterparts. 

One specific way of uniting varying generations in a workplace is by fostering a specific culture. This can be accomplished through team-building activities that involve employees of various generations, creating a feeling of unity among the employees. 

If you are a Gen Z reading this and are new to the workforce, click Here!

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