Last month, I capped off my year as a guest expert at a CEO roundtable. The discussion quickly evolved from online social networks and their value (or not) in business to talk about the various generations (specifically the Gen Y and Boomers).
As the sole Gen Y’er in the room, I really changes some perceptions of what people think “we” are. A lot of the misconceptions about our Generation are based on a few random companies that allow parents ot come on job interviews and crazy parents that negotiate salarys. Honestly, that is not the norm for our generation – but it is the most sensational so it gets press.
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In 2008 we will have 4 generations in the workforce and the 5th starting college (Millennials).
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Silent Generation (1925-1942) Now well past retirement, they are phasing out of the workforce quickly in the next 5 years.
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- Boomers (1943-1963) The boomers are hitting retirement age with the oldest of the boomers are turning 65 this year!
- Gen X (1964-1977) Gen X is now squarely into their 30′s and 40′s!
- Gen Y (1978-1987) Believe it or not, Gen Y is turning 30 this year! (Well, not all of us – some of them).
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Millinnials (1988-2000) No – I don’t count them as Gen Y – talk to a 30 Year old and an 18 year old and you will find out why – The technology is changing too fast to clump them all together They are now are interns and recent grads!
Now, as we start 2008, it may be worth your time to really challenge your perceptions and learn how to integrate the amazing gifts brought to us from each of the generations in the workforce. Take some time within your own organization to see what various generations you have on hand and what you are doing for each of them that is specifically targeted to their drivers. How are you handling the large number of retirements you may have coming over the next 3-5 years? What are you doing now to ensure their knowledge is not leaving with them? What are you doing to keep the 20-40 year olds that are always networking? How do you keep selling the organization to them? This is not a “big” company issue ? it is something that companies of all sizes will need to address over the next few years. Understanding the various generations, what motivates them and what discourages them will help you have a better understanding of how to recruit and retain them as well as launch your organization to business success!
