Q&A: Are Gen Xers Good Leaders for the Y Generation

Dear Omar,
I’ve found a wide range of relationships between members of Gen X and Y. In some cases, the X’ers are invigorated by the Y’s and enjoy the new ideas and “push” they bring to the workplace.

However, in many cases, I’ve found that X’ers are annoyed by Y’s.  It’s important to remember that X’ers entered the workplace at a time when few people were worrying about how to keep them happy. X’ers slipped into whatever slots were available, given the large number of Boomers who had preceded them, and have had to work hard to advance.  Many feel that the priority companies have placed on attracting and retaining Y’s is a bit unfair, since there was little of that thinking when they were newcomers.  Many also find the Y’s unrealistic in their desires to advance, and secretly worry that the Y’s will advance right past them.

My hope is that a better understanding of why people approach work they way they do will help reduce any irritation, and allow the generations to work together more effectively. X’ers and Y’s have the potential to make a great team—for example, they both use social media and are committed to integrating it into their business activities.

I’d love to hear more about your thoughts and observations.

Best,

Tammy

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Generational Perspectives Can Strengthen Your Strategy

Filed under: Comparisons Among the Generations | Published: 03/07/12