Four generations are presently represented in today’s marketplace. Understanding how these groups differ, what is important to them, and how they approach their jobs will help you make the best placement. Knowing their work habits and methods of communication will better equip you to satisfy your client’s needs.

Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964, are currently aged from 55 to 73 years. They prefer to speak on the phone and meet face-to-face. Approximately 10,000 Baby Boomers are expected to reach the age of 65 each day through 2029, however, Boomers are expected to remain in the workforce beyond their typical retirement age. This generation is influencing the workplace by driving several trends: less interest in working long hours, less defined by their job titles, more interest in short-term assignments, and more interest in flex scheduling. These factors help Baby Boomers, and other generations, enjoy an enhanced quality of life. Boomers have a better chance of finding a company to work for that offers this flexibility. By the year 2030, Boomers will represent approximately 9%, 15.1 million, of a 173 million person workforce.

Generation X, born between 1965 and 1980, are currently aged 39 to 54 years. This generation is technologically adept and comfortable working with Smart phones, email, laptops, tablets, and other devices. They are independent, resourceful, and self-sufficient. Gen X’ers appreciate fun in the workplace and have a work hard – play hard mentality. They adapt well to change and are generally very socially tolerant. Many Gen X’ers lived through difficult economic times in the 1980’s and witnessed their workaholic parents lose hard-earned positions. This led to Gen X’ers being less committed to a single employer and willing to change jobs to get ahead. By the year 2030, Generation X’ers will number approximately 43.6 million and will represent approximately 25.2% of the workforce.

Millennials, born between 1981 and 1997, are currently aged 22 to 38 years. According to the Pew Research Center, Millennials surpassed all other generations in 2016 as the largest segment of the workforce. This generation values teamwork as a part of the company’s culture, the importance of electronic literacy, embracing diversity and flexibility, and wants to focus on results. Millennials are hard workers who value flexible schedule and less restrictive oversight. Approximately 90% of Millennials prefer to work remotely and to work on their own schedule. Social purpose is an important driver for Millennials. By the year 2030, Millennials will represent approximately 43.9% of the workforce, equaling 75.9 million.

Gen Z, born between 1998 to 2012, are currently aged 7 to 21 years. This generation is also known as iGEN because they are the first generation to grow up with the iPhone. Some characteristics of iGENs include having less experience in after-school or summer jobs, less interest in face-to-face contact with others, preferring to connect with others via Smartphones, and have been more supervised and protected while growing up. Career Coach Michael Robinson of CareerPlanner.com emphasizes that iGENs will need either relevant workforce skills or a formal education. Many business leaders note that iGEN’ers will need soft-skills coaching such as problem solving, time management, business etiquette, and communication skills. When Millennials were asked what guidance they would give iGEN’ers they said: learn as much as possible, work hard, be patient, and be flexible. Gen Z will start entering the workforce in 2019. By the year 2030, GEN Z will account for 38.4 million in the workforce, representing a share of 22.2%.

Being aware of these generational differences will prepare you to place the right person in the right job. Help your clients understand the importance and strengths of each generation. With workplace trends there will be a growing importance of flexibility, work-life balance, and “GIG” assignments. By adding the flexibility of temp and contract assignments, you position yourself to move forward with the coming generational waves. By working together we can move successfully into the future...WITH TEMP AND CONTRACT PLACEMENTS!

Call Judy at 713-858-2677 to answer any questions.  Or  if you have a referal.