Generation Gap in terms of viewpoints, thinking and attitude has always been a bone of contention among the generations. Currently we have 4 generations prevailing on the planet Boomers I and Boomers II (Birth years from 1940s to mid 1960s). Then we have Gen X from mid 1960s to 1980), after that we have millennials (from 1981 till 1996) and latest to get added this bouquet is GenZ (from 1997 till 2012).
What have been the attributes of these genres, Boomers1 and Boomers 2 were the most obedient generation who wished their contribution to be valued. For them sticking with one company and one partner was most important. Adapting to new technologies was a challenge for them but eventually they would. Gen X valued their autonomy and education more than anything, they were more comfortable with technology and for them having fun along with work was equally important.
Millennials and GenZ are tech savvy generation, they cannot work without technology. They are rule breakers and not at all convergent in terms of beliefs and thinking. Being divergent is their dominion. They cannot work in rigid structures, they require space and flexibility to function optimally.
Challenges occur when Boomers I and II are raising Millennials and Gen Z, there is the clash of titans. They have conflicts on everything from being adaptive to technology, to what they like to study, eat and wear. Gen Z is adamant on breaking all the barriers regarding genders, stereotype roles, race, ethnicities, communities, religion and societal norms. They comprehend the diversity, equity and inclusion in a sense which is alien to Boomers I and II.
The best way to understand and deal with millennials and Gen Z is to give them space and flexibility. They are born and being raised in a different era. They have not experienced the evolution of technology, they came into being when technology was present and thriving, hence their value system with respect to resourcesand relationships is very different than their parents. They view relationships, responsibilities and freedom of expression in an extremely different manner. Obedience, respecting elders and following instructions do not come naturally to them, they want to question, explore, innovate and figure out their own truths and opinions. And they have no regrets about it. GenZ and their ideas are here to stay embracing them will simplify everyone’s life.
Indu Bhargava has almost 23 years of professional experience in the field of training, counseling, education, journalism, and corporate communications.
