For the first time in history, five generations will soon be working side by side. These generations of employees will not become more alike with age. The different generations carry their “generation personalities” with them. If hard times hit, the generations are likely to entrench themselves deeply into the attitudes and behaviours that have been ingrained in them. Companies need to find ways to adjust the ways that they recruit, retain, and manage personnel in order to have a workforce that enables them to compete in a global market.
Traditionalist (1925-1945)
Work Ethic and Values
Hard-working
Respect authority
Sacrifice
Duty before fun
Adhere to rules
This hard-working, loyal and respectful generation has strong job loyalty. they are conscious of money and buy things because they have to.
Baby Boomers (1946-1964)
Work Ethic and Values
Workaholics
Work efficiently
Desire quality
Question authority
Nostalgic and enjoy items that keep them connected to their past and achievements.
Generation X (1965-1979)
Work Ethic and Values
Eliminate the task
Self-reliance
Want structure
Want direction
Skeptical
Family is very important; they look for jobs that have a work-home, life balance.
Generation Y (aka Millennials) (1980-1995)
Work Ethic and Values
“What’s next”
Multitaskers
Tenacity
Entrepreneurial
Goal-oriented
Socially conscious and into philanthropy – involved with non-profits or volunteer work and purchasing products that support a cause.
Gen Z (1996-2010)
Work Ethic and Values
Socially connected
Celebrate diversity and equality for all
This generation is just entering the workforce. They are the most tech-savvy generation and want to make an impact on the world.