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Untitled Document
Understanding the Next Generation
At the Power Transmission Distributors Association annual Industry Summit in Palm Springs, CA, in October, Marilyn Moats-Kennedy of Career Strategies spoke of differences between generations in the workplace. Understanding those who report to you will help you be a better manager, and make the future of your business look a little brighter.
Keep in mind that these types of presentations tend to be full of generalizations, so may not apply to each and every employee in the following age ranges:
Pre-boomers are those born from 1934-1945, and most have retired but may have returned to work. They want to be around younger employees and to be good mentors. Give them episodic work, such as a 13-week project. They are loyal and hard-working and believe in quality.
Boomers were born from 1946-1959 and make up about 35% of full-time workforce. They may misinterpret the younger generation's disregard for putting in long hours as a lack of ambition. They care deeply about what others think and want to talk about their experiences. They are motivated by money and climbing the corporate ladder.
Cuspers make up 11% of the workforce and were born between 1960 and 1968. They care about the company mission and want their work to have meaning. The group is made up of leaders and followers who are peacemakers. They also like to play hard and do not want the responsibility of management.
Busters, born between 1969 and 1978, make up 18% of the full-time workforce and are commonly referred to as Generation X. They prefer to work alone and are not team-oriented. Improving their skill set is important; they want to get the job done with as little conversation as possible.
And finally, Netsters are the newest addition to the workforce. They make up 3% of workers, and are a "sunnier version" of the Busters. They look for employment that is flexible and offers decent pay, and do not stay with an employer for more than five years. They want experience and many one day see themselves owning their own business.
This summary was provided by PTDA.
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