Generations at WorkThe dynamics associated with working with people in an office, department, or organization are difficult to classify or explain. Additionally, personalities, positions, age, and values are all aspects of how people relate to getting work done. Additionally, each generation brings distinct elements and predilections to the work environment. We then examine the four generations represented in today's workforce. My Generation People born between 1946 and 1964 are classified in American society as baby boomers. I discovered at thirty that I was part of this generation. Even though I had heard of this term as a child, it had never occurred to me that I was a member, especially since I barely qualify. According to a survey conducted by the Pew Social & Demographic Trends Project, baby boomers are the darkest generation. Furthermore, their outlook on everything from health to finances and quality of life is bleak (Cohn, 2008). However, some experts refute this assessment. They maintain Baby Boomers, also referred to as the “Me” generation, are competitive, self-sufficient, and are considered workaholics. Therefore, their serious work ethic has pushed many to stay in the workforce longer than expected. As a result, baby boomers remain at work in some capacity, typically as part-time workers, to support a certain level of income to support hobbies and other nonprofessional interests (Cordington, 2010). Clearly, some baby boomers have a heightened sense of desperation. by a combined fear of aging and loss of income (Cohn, 2008). Although the median household income of this generation is higher than that of adults aged 25 to 44 ($53,000) and adults aged 65 and older ($30,000), the transition to a fixed income with increased medical costs is… middle of the paper… “While older workers make more errors, perhaps due to declining physical characteristics, they rarely make serious errors, perhaps due to greater experience” (Fernandez, 2011, p.1). Paradoxically, the skills possessed by older workers are too specific and unique to meet the needs of today's multi-level positions. Therefore, younger, multidimensional, computer-savvy workers weaned on cutting-edge technology are preferred (“The New York Times,” 2009). Conclusion The four generations represented in today's workforce have tendencies, perceptions and misconceptions about each other that can hinder working relationships. However, each group brings skills, beliefs and values necessary for the success of a company. Thus, the creativity, innovations, and ingenuity of the American workforce are due in large part to the tolerance of perceived gaps in each generation..
tags