Generation Shift!
Ahh 2006! There’s nothing better than to experience something new! A new car, a new shirt, a new job or maybe a total makeover! But a new year? That’s special!Now some of you may be reading this and experiencing a small degree of elation. Whilst others might just be saying about now, “I don’t know what the fuss is about?”
THE DIFFERENCE IS GENERATIONAL
Now before we launch into a great tirade of how best to approach 2006, we should first know how to manoeuvre around the playing field, our work environment. At least if we know the potential potholes we may be able to navigate around them, or at least with them.
You see, we’re surrounded by Generation Y (1994-1980), Generation X (1979-1965), Baby Boomers (1964-1946) and Traditionalists (1945-1900), all with a different approach to the new year.
Oh, and by the way the next generation playing on your computer at home, installing the latest software challenging Microsoft’s latest operating systems are called “Millennials”. Best remember this little group as they sneak up on all of us!
How to play the game and keep a straight face … or save face.
This clever algebraic expression is self explanatory.
Generation x + Technology = y
Both the Boomers (aged 42-60) and Gen X’rs (aged 27-41) have something in common. They’re goal setters, chronological thinkers who process information in linear form, from front to back, from top to bottom. They understand how today’s decisions may impact upon tomorrow.
Now Generation Y’s or should we say “Whys” (Aged 12-26) are the digital thinkers who process information randomly as opposed to sequentially. They’re not inherently convinced that today's actions will affect tomorrow's outcomes in any certain way.
They know all-too-well that someone can be the hero today and a villain tomorrow - and visa versa.
They reflect upon icons who have survived drug addictions, criminal prosecution, sexual misconduct, bounced back and made millions in the process.
Interestingly a third of this group will opt for a portfolio career, made up of part time and entrepreneurial ventures.
In North America a trend is occurring within this group with just below half of the “Y” workforce opting not to work full time for a single employer.
Gen Y’s are seeking a more flexible lifestyle, that’s also highly mobile. Although this sounds a tad self-centred and non-committal, statistics also indicate that a third are involved in some kind of volunteer or not for profit activity.
So it appears this has been a legacy from the “X’rs who are environmentally and socially conscious. It’s also said that X’rs are the generation looking for peace of mind and leisure time.
They’re health conscious with almost half the generation using vitamins or supplements as well reading labels. If you haven’t already noticed they are also the prominent generation who live longer at home. This is influenced by boomer parents possessing a strong sense of family values.
HOW DOES THIS AFFECT ME AT WORK?
Look around you, be aware of the make up of your colleagues, identify the potholes before stepping into them, and observe those characteristics of others and take a mental note. Use this information to assist in achieving your goals.
Our environment is constantly changing due to the people in it, so we should be aware of where the changes are occurring and by whom.
Change occurs as a consequence of people’s actions, not because it just happens.
So, who are you in 2006? Are you the leading edge of change, or someone who’s comfortable in riding the wave? Not that there’s anything wrong with that. However, if you’re a rebel, chances are your career will stagnate.
People are a company’s greatest asset, so identify those in your organisation with traces of positive change, harness a team with like values, be part of this team, and forge a career where others will follow.
posted by Karl Jansson @ 7:29 PM
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