4 Generations of People

CONTENTS PAGE NO

1. Introduction……………………………………………………… 1

2. Outline of the different generational groups:…………………. 1

2.1 The Veteran………………………………………………. 2

2.2 The Baby Boomer………………………………………… 3

2.3 Generation X……………………………………………… 3

2.4 Generation Y……………………………………………… 4

3. A South African Organisation…………………………………… 4

3.1 History of Eskom…………………………………………………. 4

3.2. Generational Similarities and Differences………………………6

3.2.1 Attitudes to work…………………………………………. 6

3.2.2 Skills shortage, loss and retention……………………... 8

3.2.3 Motivation and training………………………………….. 10

3.2.4 Recruitment and management…………………………. 11

3.2.5 Researchers view…………………………………………12

4. Conclusion…………………………………………………………13

5. Bibliography……………………………………………………….14

1. Introduction

For the first time in history organisations have four generations working together. In the past there were unequivocal rules as to how the boss was treated and how younger workers behaved towards older workers. This is no longer the case as roles today are all over the place and the rules are being constantly rewritten. Nowadays the aeon in which a person was born affects their view of the world and significant events during this time mould their outlook and shape their values. Different generations demonstrate a range of different qualities and have contradictory needs in the workplace. Each generation therefore depicts distinct attitudes, behaviours, expectations and habits.

Learning how to communicate with the different generations can eliminate many major confrontations and misunderstandings in the workplace and the world of business. Understanding your generation and others can help in not only managing your teams, but also in the management of diversity and gaining insight into why people might behave or respond in a particular way. Equipped with this knowledge one can understand and accept the differences in others but also choose the correct response when communicating with them.

It...