Generation Gap

It's a well known fact that every generation has it's own culture, it's own morals and it's own way of doing things. Because society is changing by the decade these days, this generational gap has never been more evident. Within one corporation, you will usually have Baby Boomers (born from 1940-1960), GenXers (born from 1961-1981), and GenYers (born after 1982), each with their own philosophies, quirks, and habits. As you can imagine, or have experienced firsthand yourself, this can create quite the frustrating work environment when generations butt heads.

Most Baby Boomers have been with the same company for 20 years or more and usually hold positions of authority. Often enough, they subscribe to the philosophy of "if it ain't broke, don't fix it". They have been doing things the same way for many years, and don't see a reason to change the system.




GenXers, on the other hand, are more concerned with finding the right job for them. They are not afraid to change positions or companies and are a little resentful with the whole notion of "climbing the corporate ladder". They are often more concerned with a work-life balance and subscribe to the philosophy of "work to live, instead of live to work".

GenYers are more often impatient and want what they are doing now to be as enjoyable and meaningful as possible. They see their corporate environment as inefficient and would like to do things on their own time, not during the 9-5 workday that their Baby Boomer boss insists upon. Most GenYers are highly motivated with great ideas, but struggle to get those ideas heard because of their "newbie" factor. They subscribe to the philosophy of "give me a job, and I'll get it done my way".

What do you guys think? Are these philosophies accurate? What generational philosophy do you subscribe to? Do you have a story where the generation gap between you and your co-workers was painfully evident? Do you have any advice on how to deal with another generation? Let us know! Leave us a comment below!