Echo Boomers

Generation Y refers to the specific generation born between the 1980’s to the early 1990’s and was the term given to this generation after proceeding Generation X, according to Gibson. (Gibson, 2013) Members of generation Y are often referred to as “echo boomers” because they are children of parents born to the baby boomers, this is a key point as they see themselves very different than their parents. Thus to understands what motivates them or de-motivates them you need to understand how they perceived their parents professional lives.

Those of us that are considered baby boomers grew up with an understanding that we could reject traditional values. We did not have access to the same technology, computers, and cellphones while growing up. (Even though the baby boomers invented them.) We grew up with social reform, the war in Vietnam, Nixon’s resignation and social changes, all reflective in the music of Bob Dylan and Woodstock. Therefore relationship building, networking and commitments were the key buzz words for business majors 30 years ago. Baby Boomers believed that working hard and looking out for themselves would bring success.

Now as we continue to recruit the future leaders of our businesses we have grown concerned about the rising generation of young workers. (Howe, 2010) We must learn that this generation views the world differently and that pop-culture, flip flops and texting are just the way they get things done. What I find exciting about this generation is how they get work done, collaborative thinking leaning, team instincts and tight peer bonds. They expect the workplace, like their education, to emphasize teamwork.

As leaders in today’s world we need to adjust our leadership styles away from Donald Trump’s style on the “The Apprentice.” We move away from the cut throat competition to a work environment that is team focus. Create communities of trust, immersive orientations and give positive feedback through group recognition. Encourage high level of interoffice communication, not limited to face to face but include digital-mobile technology. (Howe, 2010)

Take an interest in their success as the Millennial’ s have grown up in an environment that accountability, transparency and educational standards have risen to the top of the American political scene. For example grades, aptitude tests and weekly reports to mom and dad. There is no surprise that Millennial’s are emerging as the most achievement-oriented youth generation. Referring back to their parents 30 years ago Baby Boomers launched a growing resistance to being ranked by “the system” Today Millennial’s are bringing back the desire to achieve within the system. (Howe, 2010) Therefore we need to develop objectives with concrete benchmarks, offer ongoing training and development so workers can maintain cutting edge professional skills.

Parents of this generation will stay actively involved