We are living in truly incredible times. Not only do technological changes continue to push boundaries once thought impossible, the evolutions also promise to disrupt and redefine the ways we communicate, shop, work and find a new job. This is also the first time in history there are four distinct demographic groups in the workplace together. As a result, the rules of the workplace and recruiting continue to fluctuate, looking for the most effective ways to work with and among these disparate groups.
Defining the Generations
Matures or Traditionalists – Born before 1946, this group of individuals is delaying retirement to continue working. This choice might be for financial reasons or to keep the mind and body active and engaged.
Baby Boomers – Marketers view this collective of individuals born 1946-1964 as the most influential and powerful group, followed by Generation Y. Also known as the Sandwich Generation, Baby Boomers may be raising children while simultaneously taking care of their parents.
Generation X – The collective of latch-key children born 1965-1980 are now in their prime working years, juggling child rearing, career advancement and plans for the future.
Generation Y – Also known as the Millennials, this group born 1980-2000 loves technology and are famous for questioning the status quo. This racially diverse group could also be the catalyst of a re-imagined workplace.
Attempting to Articulate the Unknown
As to be expected, each of the generational groups holds its own ideas and concepts regarding the ideal workplace, benefits and desired modes of communication. For those in charge of recruitment and workplace satisfaction, meeting the desires and expectations of Baby Boomers and Generations X and Y can feel like trying to hit a constantly moving target.
Varying Expectations
Baby Boomers
- Desire longer-term tenure with company loyalty
- Look for financial security and stability
- Seek out employers with long-term and positive standing in community
- Desire to contribute extensive knowledge and experience within the workplace
Generation X
- Search out stable working arrangement with flexibility for telecommuting
- Expect genuine work/life balance work initiatives
- Need benefits for child and elder care
- Incentivized by stocks, benefits and salary
Generation Y
- Expect to contribute opinions and ideas
- Desire for flexible work arrangements, attire choices and scheduling
- Look for workplaces using latest technologies
- Prefer meaningful work positions but not long-term tenure
Embracing New Educational Opportunities within the Workplace
Having the combined inputs and experience of multiple generations within the workplace is a benefit few of us imagined when first starting a career. With individuals from several generations in place within the same company, there is an unprecedented opportunity for employees from all the generations to not only learn valuable skills but also have the chance to emulate the successful qualities of those who helped set the bar on the original standards.
As a top Kansas City recruiting firm since 1988, Austin Nichols Technical Search has served clients in a variety of fields and specializations. Austin Nichols specializes in direct hire and contract recruiting for all generations in manufacturing, construction, engineering, and technical positions.
