Baby boomers are seen as optimistic, hard-working, and team players. They are not in a rush to retire and tend to prioritize work over family matters. They will get it done, no matter what it takes, even if they have to spend nights and weekends in the office. One of the more important things they look for in a job is meaningful work and they see benefits (i.e. health care and retirement) as the most important perk.
Generation X are seen as an independent, hardworking, productive part of their organization and the tech pioneers. They ‘grew up’ independent, self-reliant, and supportive of technology (e.g. microwaves, video games, personal computers). They like to find the fastest route to results and protocol is secondary. They are not afraid to do their own thing and prefer to work independently. They believe hard work is the key to getting ahead.
Millennials tend to be self-expressive, group-oriented, and tech dependent. They see themselves as authentic and are not willing to compromise their family and personal values. According to a study by Zipcar, “40 per cent of millennials believe losing their phone would be a bigger hardship than losing their automobile.” They tend to work for deadlines rather than to a regular schedule. They feel success should be measured by more than profit and prefer on-the-spot and frequent recognition over formal reviews.
