Today’s American workforce–a mix of races, genders, ethnicities and generations–is unrecognizable compared to just a few decades ago. Never before have four generations (Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X and Millennials) worked side by side. Each generation brings differing styles, values and strengths to the office. Without awareness and understanding, these differences can create friction; but managed well, they can add valuable depth to your organization.

Traditionalists: Born 1922-1945
The oldest generation in today’s workforce, Traditionalists, have built the business world as we know it. Known for their dedication, hard work and patience, they are often willing to put duty before pleasure. They share a respect for authority and adherence to rules. Traditionalists grew up in hard times, and events such as The New Deal, Pearl Harbor and the Korean War likely shaped their perspective.

Baby Boomers: Born 1946-1964
“Boomers,” the largest generation currently in the workforce, grew up differently than their Traditionalist predecessors. Born during one of the greatest expansion periods in U.S. history, their childhoods were optimistic and positive. They were doted on by their parents and, for the first time, child-rearing was viewed as a pleasure and hobby, not as an economic necessity. Known for their youth, involvement and team orientation, Boomers strive to succeed. They view personal growth and gratification as important. Key events during their childhood include Congress’ passage of the Civil Rights Act, the first moon landing and Woodstock.

Generation X: Born 1965-1979
Sometimes referred to as the latchkey generation, “Gen X” is often hidden in the shadow of 76 million Boomers. Much smaller at 51 million, Xers grew up during a struggling economy and soaring divorce rates, which left them to fend for themselves. Events such as the Watergate scandal, the stock market plummet of ’87 and the L.A. riots influenced them to distrust institutions and reject rules. Xers are accepting of diversity and are often viewed as individualistic, pragmatic and informal.

Millennials: Born 1980-2000
Entering the office within the last seven years, Millennials or “Gen Y” will soon become the largest generation in today’s workforce as Traditionalists and Boomers begin to retire. Born with a [computer] mouse in their hands, Millennials grew up pampered, nurtured and programmed. Their overscheduled childhoods guided them to become confident, achievement-oriented and sociable. However, Millennials crave instant feedback and support, leading some to argue that they lack decision-making skills and have a sense of entitlement. Technology, extreme child focus, the Clinton/Lewinsky scandal and the Columbine High School massacre have greatly impacted their opinions and beliefs.

Understanding your employees’ backgrounds and where their opinions originate can help you work together more effectively. Here are highlights of the different assets and liabilities each generation brings to the workplace, as well as their preferred leadership styles.

Generation	Assets in the Workplace	Liabilites in the Workplace	Leadership Style Preferences	Motivation Examples
Traditionalists Born 1922-1945 Ages 64-87	Hard working, stable, loyal, thorough, detail-oriented, focused, emotional maturity.	Inept with ambiguity and change, uncomfortable with conflict, reluctant to buck the system.	Fair, consistent, clear, direct, respectful.	“Your experience is respected.” “Your perseverance is valued and will be rewarded.”
Baby Boomers Born 1946-1964 Ages 45-63	Team perspective, dedicated, experienced, knowledgeable, service-oriented.	Not naturally budget-minded, may put process ahead of result, overly sensitive to feedback and self-centered.	Treat as equals, warm and caring, mission-defined, democratic approach.	“You’re important to our success.” “Your contribution is unique and important.”
Generation X Born 1965-1979 Ages 30-44	Independent, adaptable, creative, techno-literate, willing to challenge the status quo.	Impatient, poor people skills, inexperienced and cynical.	Direct, competent, genuine, informal, flexible, results-oriented, supportive of learning opportunities.	“Do it your way.” “There aren’t a lot of rules here.”
Millennials Born 1980-2000 Ages 9-29	Optimistic, able to multi-task, tenacious, technologically savvy, driven to learn and grow, team-oriented, socially responsible.	Need for supervision and structure. Inexperience, particularly with handling difficult people issues.	Motivational, collaborative, positive, educational, organized, achievement-oriented, coachable.	“You can be a hero here.” “You and your co-workers can help turn this company around.”

For more information on managing the generational divide, check out Generations in the Workplace and Diversity at Work. Both courses are available through TotalSource University.