Reflections on an Intersection of Generations

By: Deb Holliday

While I am no expert on “generation gaps in the workplace”; I am a living example of a baby boomer in (un)retirement in a team of Generation X and Y co-workers. While generalization should be avoided, there are group traits that cannot be ignored. I found a working understanding is helpful in today's workplace as we find ourselves amongst a diverse employee base.

WHO ARE THEY?
Baby Boomers are described as workaholics, people-pleasers, self-fulfilling, and in many cases, gain their identity through their jobs.

Generation X is defined as the first to be techno-literate. We usually see those of Gen X as multi-taskers who perform jobs quickly and expect feedback promptly, as well as flexibility and autonomy.

Generation Y is characterized by the need to be constantly connected: Internet, cell phone, I-pod, social networking. In The workplace, these individuals seek immediate responsibility, are goal-oriented and have high expectations of self.

WHY IT MATTERS?
Why is this topic of such great interest to me? I am older than my colleagues at Pascale Communications and have, in fact, children the ages of my co-workers. Anyone starting a new position has a certain amount of apprehension associated with the new responsibilities, expectations, but the age differential added a new dimension. The first time I viewed the company website and realized that my photo and biography would be placed next to those of the Generation X and Y colleagues, I thought twice about my decision to accept the offer of employment. Upon meeting my new coworkers for the first time, I was amazed to learn that I was not the only one with an age issue. I heard my youngest colleagues express concern that despite their technological and PR savvy that they may not be taken seriously because of their age and youthful appearance. I'd prefer to be on that end of the age spectrum, but yet I was empathetic to their concern.

My advice for those who may sometimes struggle with generational issues is to be direct, honest, real and appreciative of the assistance that will most assuredly come. Mutual empathy and respect are key in dealing with a wide range of ages and life experience. My experience in working with colleagues from all generations has been remarkably positive. Mentoring is usually thought of to be a transaction between a young, neophyte and an older, wiser, more knowledgeable individual who can show the younger person the “ropes”. It can, I am pleased to report, work the other way as well.