Welcome back to our exploratory series on how each generation functions in the workplace - and why they function that way. So far, we have examined the upbringings, cultural norms, and professional habits of Traditionalists and Baby Boomers. We’ve learned what makes them tick and why they act as they do in professional spaces. Next up...
Generation X. These are my people.
Gen X’ers were born in approximately 1965 - 1980; There were 55 million of us born and our commonly cited characteristics are being independent, cautious, skeptical and tech pioneers. (Lindsey Pollack, the REMIX)
We are a small generation sandwiched between the two largest: Boomers and Millennials. Because of our small numbers, we are unflatteringly referred to as ‘the baby bust’ generation. Our parents divorced at a rate of 50%, leaving many of us in single-parent households. With that parent out working, we were often referred to as ‘latch-key’ children because we came home from school to an empty house and had to fend for ourselves learning to use microwave ovens, video games and the brand new technology, personal computers. We didn’t play outside nearly as much as Boomers when they were coming up as fear of kidnapping was ‘a thing’ as evidenced by kids on the back of milk cartons. We had fewer siblings and often were only children.
It all sounds a rather bleak and lonely start in life for some of us. It might have been, but I prefer to look at it from another perspective: what did these experiences teach us? What life skills were cultivated that serve us today? Frankly, a lot.
I was surprised, in doing research for this piece, that I actually check all the boxes from the above: my parents divorced when I was 5 and my brother was 3, we lived in New York City with Mom, who was seldom home when we got home from school and we visited Dad in the Boston area every other weekend and a month during summer vacation. It WAS in fact, lonely and sometimes scary, BUT I learned a ton about self reliance, independence, adaptability and resourcefulness, all of which have served me well in all phases of my development.
I remember walking home from third grade (I know! Can you imagine anyone letting their 8 year old out on the streets of New York - or anywhere - today?? But this wasn’t at all unusual for me or my classmates) Some man stopped me and asked me the time. A polite girl, I looked at my watch when he reached for the hem of my uniform to pull it up with nefarious intent. Rather than freezing in fear, I stomped on his foot, said “F*** you!” and started running towards my building (yes, a through and through New Yorker even at 8). I came home to the empty apartment, slightly shaken (understandably), calmed myself and started my homework. I never mentioned the incident to my mother.
Hindsight being what it is, this story is horrific. So many things could have happened (reference the kidnapping thing or worse), but I protected myself, lived through it and I actually feel pretty proud of my spunk in retrospect.
When we entered the workforce dominated by Boomers, we had to learn their language, standards of professionalism and societal customs if we were going to be received well enough to advance. Women were just beginning to be considered (slightly) more equally. As we began to advance, Millennials began to enter the workforce adding a whole new dimension, perspective and language to navigate. We had to adapt, be resourceful, nimble, flexible, find our own ways, and celebrate our own unique contributions in adaptability, versatility and malleability. Just call us Gumby (who, for the younger among us, was a twistable, rubber toy that bent any way you moved him).
Generation X is a small but feisty group with whom I couldn’t be a prouder, card-carrying member.
Because Gen X is so quick to conform to their surroundings, it’s extra important to take a moment to reflect on how we treat them in the workplace. Just because they are so skilled in this chameleon-like behavior doesn’t mean that their own feelings and needs don’t exist. Gen Xers can still feel slighted by a short email from a Millennial or the harsh boundaries set up by a Baby Boomer. It’s important to check in with all employees and peers, and to create a safe space for them to feel welcome to express their feelings. Though they’re quick to accept the ideas, norms, and customs of the other generations in the professional spaces, Gen Xers have a unique way of looking at situations that could create a more harmonious intergenerational workplace if their ideas are implemented. Gen X individuals can act as a bridge that connects the more discordant generations, so asking for their input can benefit all.
Until next time.