Ageism? Baby Boomers, Generation X, Y and Z?

Ageism is still alive and kicking in the workplace. However, in my experience it is not just being steered by recruiters, head-hunters or talent acquisition specialists but also by the candidates themselves. This is based on the numerous conversations I have with some of my more mature clients who often say in a very resigned way that “This is or will be my last job.”

My thought, as always, is to ask the question “Why?” It appears to be a mindset.

Obviously, if retirement is by choice that is great, however, if the feeling is more an alienation in the workplace or being pressured then that is not so good. After, what is now known as, ‘The Great Resignation’ that occurred during and after the pandemic, the government and some employers have woken up to the value of the more mature candidates and recognised their value in the workplace.

It is about time that we appreciate that wisdom and experience have a value. Which then leads to understanding how to make the most of the generational gaps and what each brings to the table.

The workplace currently consists of:

• Baby Boomers (those born between 1946-1964) common traits

  • Committed

  • Self-sufficient

  • Competitive

  • Loyal.

• Generation X (born between 1966-1980):

  • Resourceful

  • Logical

  • Good problem-solvers.

• Millennials (or Generation Y, 1980-1995):

  • Confident

  • Curious

  • Questioning & challenging authority.

• Generation Z (1995-2010):

  • Ambitious

  • Digital natives

  • Confident.

Each generation has its strengths; however, it could be perceived the main difference would be method of communication. Boomers adopted and adapted to technology, but in the main still prefer face-to-face relationships and engagement with individuals and groups. The concept that someone sitting a couple of desks away would prefer to text than get up and talk in person is strange to say the least.

Generations X, Y and Z are tech savvy and are quick to adopt whatever the latest trend is. They conduct a lot of their social activity via the various media they have available.

I strongly believe we can cross the divide with the magic tool that we all use…..

Communication, in whatever form - we can learn from each other with time, patience and practice.