The Net Gens

The Net Gens (1992-present) enter the workforce ‘teched up’ with years of experience on computers since birth.  They usually are more technologically sound than their bosses.  They do not understand the power of face to face communication because they text, email or Skype whatever needs to be said.  They are Master Multi-Taskers and can effectively manage multiple thought processes at one time.  They know no boundaries in the chain of command as every co-worker is viewed as an equal. 

So what do you do with all this generations information?  You learn to stop judging co-workers who are not just like you and appreciate the gifts, skills sets, and value each generation brings to the work environment!  I challenge you to make 2011 the beginning of a harmonious year!.  

The Millennials

The Millennials (1979-1992) are everywhere you look!  There’s a slew of them in America – about 75 million.  Their population is just shy of the massive Boomer’s population.  Millennials have had a cushy life with the four previous generations buying them whatever their hearts’ desire.  They are accustomed to instant gratification, immediate results, and have never had to save money.  The Millennials are in shock the economy is in turmoil and literally have no experience when life has not been good.  They enter the workforce when they chose and usually look for jobs that will be fun.  This does not mean Millennials are not good workers – they are.  Under caring guidance and supervision they excel.

Generation X

Generation X (1965-1978) is the smallest generation in the history of America.  There are only 45 million of these people making up 40% of the workforce.  They will shoulder the burden of retiring populations and rising healthcare costs.  They see technology as an extension of themselves. For example, a Gen Xer thinks internet before referring to books on shelves.  They tend to focus on speed and efficiency before quality.  They make outstanding employees when allowed to work on their own with little supervision. Gen Xers have been predicted to change careers between 3-5 times in their lifetime.  Why?  Because they can!

The Boomers

The Boomers (1946-1964) have always been in crowds.  It is the largest generation in the history of America.  There are 80 million of these Boomers roaming around trying to have eternal youth, vibrant health and abounding self-directed drive. They make up 45% of the workforce and they are, by and large, in leadership in almost every industry.  From CEOs to Shift Leaders they are managing the four younger generations.  Ironically, this is the generation whose mantra was, “Never trust anyone over 30!”  Whew have things changed.  Now the Boomers are The Establishment!  Look for Boomers to want loyalty from co-workers and expect co-workers to do what they are told to do!  Because most Boomers are self-trained on computers and software they may not be as technology savvy as they appear.

The Matures

The Matures (1905-1945) make up about 5% of the workplace.  But that percentage will continue to grow as the aging population will not retire.  For the Matures, it is all about the team winning and not individual people in the team. Through hands-on training and great interpersonal skills, they serve as the quality control police for the team!  Matures are still vital in the workplace as their knowledge of the company, products and procedures is astounding.  The problem comes when Matures are not allowed to offer valuable information to the team’s success because they were intentionally left out of discussions or viewed as being “too old.”  If you have Matures on staff, be open to their vast knowledge by always including them in final decisions.

Career Ladder

If you are a Gen Xer, Millennial, or a Net Gen, you just may have reached to top of your career ladder as of this very moment.  Why?  Boomers and Matures will not retire at the requested age of 65 or 72 any longer.  Because their retirement plans have dwindled down to mere skeletons of their former portfolio, Boomers and Matures must continue to work to survive.   Studies show that by the year 2030 - 33% of the workforce will be 65 or older.  Now, Xers, Millennials, and Net Gens – do you see what I mean about your career ladder being shaky?  It’s been reported to me, some younger employees are taking bets on when Matures and Boomers will retire or pass away so they can be the next in line to their places! 

Five Generations

Let’s look at the five generations in the workplace today by dates they were born:

Matures           1905-1945

Boomers          1946-1964

Gen Xers         1965-1978

Millennials       1979-1992

Net Gen          1992 - present

Being born into a particular generation that does not necessarily mean you belong to just one the above generations.  Many Gen Xers tell me they have more of the values of the Boomer generation than their own generation. For example, if a Gen Xer was raised by grandparents, they will reflect the same values of their grandparents but be a part of the age group that sindicates they are a Gen Xer.   Please keep this fact in mind as I discuss all five generations. 

Better understanding of people in the workplace

To start off 2011 with a better understanding of people in the workplace, I am going to focus, this month’s blogs, on the ever changing workplace and the five generations that are suppose to work together as a team.  Always keep in mind, that each generation has their own set of:

1. Values

2. Music

3. Language

4. Clothes

5. Social skills

If you have recently looked at a co-worker who just does something that astounds you, keep in mind they may have been value programmed and largely impacted by the generation in which they grew up.  Therefore, they may not look at the world the way you do.  Too bad, each generation thinks their own point of view is the correct point of view.  That’s just not necessarily true. 

This series will help you assess the different generations to enhance your ability to work others in a more positive manner.  If your company or association would be interested in the three hour seminar I present entitled, “Five Generations in the Workplace” let me know how I can help out.  laura@laurahamilton.com