Popular Gen X vs. Gen Y In The Workplace: Who's Better? Shivani VyasJune 21, 2024 Bigstock

The workplace is no longer confined to cubicle spaces, hauling morning commutes, and conference rooms. Now, working is shifting from a physical place to a lifestyle.

Technology has made this transition possible because we can access people, tools, and live streams globally with the click of our mouse regardless of being at an Italian coffee shop or corporate office.

The biggest shift? We've stopped believing that productive work can only be done at work.

Yet this opinion may only align well with Gen Y, also infamously known as "the millennials," a term that has been circulating in our social culture for decades now. So, what are the key differences between Gen Y and Gen X, and how does this impact your individual workplace experience?

Let's dive into the basics first...

Gen Y | Millennials | Born 1981-1996 Gen X  | Born 1965-1980 Millennial Stereotypes

Bigstock

You can see the key attributes that set these two generations apart. But before you say, "Agh, millennials!" let's look at the statistics—especially important for those that stereotype millennials as lazy or entitled:

• There are 73 million millennials in America and they make up the largestsegment in the workplace.
• Millennial population statistics projected that by 2025, they would comprise 75% of the global labor force.

So, perhaps it's time for all non-millennials to make peace with this large workforce! So, Who’s Better Than The Other?

Bigstock

Each generation has its strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, an individual's core values should play a role in the types of tasks, projects, or other opportunities they receive at work, in addition to other factors like experience and skill set.

We can't stress the importance of understanding the differences between these two generations enough because it can create a more efficient, profitable, and friendly workplace.

Employees: Look for companies that honor your core values and provide a work culture that aligns with your beliefs and strengths. If you don't, chances are, you may end up being in a position that causes you mental stress, loss of professional confidence, or career depression.

Employers: Do not try to mold or force a millennial into a role more suited for Gen X or vice versa. It will most likely lead to failure and loss of time and money.

Example 1: A Gen Y employee may not do well with strict Monday-Friday schedules in office settings, especially when tight project deadlines are approaching. But they're most likely willing to work non-traditional, flexible work hours. So, if you're looking for a candidate that will go above and beyond for a company during the holidays including working weekends, Gen Y probably is the right fit.

Example 2: If you have a project where you're only able to provide minimal supervision due to lack of time or resources, choose a Gen X employee.

Go Beyond Stereotypes

Bigstock

At the end of the working day, think beyond stereotypes of any kind, especially when it comes to generational differences. Instead, try to view your colleagues as people first, rather than sources of irritation or competition.

See how you can learn from each other's differences and work in a harmonious way that honors both sides' experiences and beliefs. You may actually gain more appreciation and respect for your peers this way, and maybe even be inspired by them, too.

Need more help with your career?

Become a member to learn how to UNLEASH your true potential to get what you want from work!

From Your Site Articles

• 5 Professional Development Tips For College Students ›
• 8 Things You Need To Know About Project Management Right Now ›
• What Generation Z Is Looking For In Their Dream Jobs - Work It Daily ›

Related Articles Around the Web

• Do you identify more with GenX or Millennials in the workplace? : r ... ›
• Gen X Vs. Millennial: Bridging the Generational Gap in the Workplace ›
• Just How Different Are Millennials, Gen Xers, and Baby Boomers at ... ›

workplace Partner Boost 11 Ways To Enjoy Summer When You’re Working A Full-Time Job Ariella CoombsJenna ArcandJune 13, 2024 Bigstock

There you are: sitting on the beach, covered in sunscreen, reading your favorite book, drinking your favorite drink under the cool shade of an umbrella. Life doesn't get any better than this. Suddenly, a door slams, a phone rings, a printer turns on. You jolt back into consciousness. You're at work, sitting in your cubicle, without even a hint of sunshine streaming in from outside.

When you're working a full-time job, finding time to enjoy the warm, bright summer weather can be a challenge. This is especially true for young professionals, as many of them are used to having summers off (or, at the very least, having a flexible summer schedule). But there's no need to feel trapped behind your cubicle walls. Go out and enjoy summer!

Here are a few tips for making the most of your summer while working full time.

1. Grab Some Foldable Chairs

Bigstock

Keep a couple of foldable camping chairs at the office so you and a co-worker can catch some rays during lunch—whether it's in the park or the parking lot.

2. Keep A Beach Bag In Your Car​

Bigstock

Keep a bag full of summer supplies for your favorite summer activities. Having a bag (or, in my case, a backseat) full of towels, sunscreen, and swimwear keeps you prepared for anything. Friends hitting up the pool after work? You're covered. Once the clock strikes five, you can head to your destination of choice immediately.

3. Plan An Office Outing

Bigstock

Plan an office field trip to the beach, the park, or the pool. Just do something fun so your brain can recharge and refresh!

4. Organize Group Walks

Bigstock

Get a bunch of co-workers together and go on regular walks around town during lunch. (Or you could suggest a quick jaunt over to the ice cream shop.) This is a great way to get some fresh air, sunshine, and exercise.

5. Eat Lunch At The Park

Bigstock

When you find yourself eating out, hit up places with a deck, porch, or patio of some sort. Obviously, eating out every day isn't really a feasible option for most of us, so look into alternative ideas as well. Pack a lunch and hit the park for your own little picnic.

6. Organize Office Sports

Bigstock

Whether it's setting up an official office sports team or just hanging out with your colleagues a few times a week, playing sports is a great way to get out and enjoy the weather. Have a field nearby? Try setting up some slow-pitch softball games. Or see if you can get a basketball hoop for the office so you and a few co-workers can shoot some hoops at lunch.

7. Join A Professional Group

Bigstock

During the summer, professional networking groups often have fun events like harbor cruises, pub crawls, and outdoor mixers. Find a professional group in your area and make networking fun this summer.

8. Have An Office BBQ

Bigstock

Get your grill on! Talk to your boss about setting up an office BBQ. Ask everyone to contribute their favorite dish, side, or drink. Fire up the grill and relax! Hey, it's summer after all.

9. Wake Up Early

Bigstock

Yes, yes, I know...waking up early is an incredibly painful and unbearable experience for some of us, but waking up even an hour earlier has its benefits—especially in the summer. Go for a morning run, putter around in the garden, or watch the sunrise with a loved one. Talk about starting the day off right!

10. Strategically Use Your Time Off

Bigstock

Strategically use your vacation days around holidays. This way, you can make a potentially long weekend longer without having to use too much of your precious vacation time. Half days are also pretty awesome. It's amazing how much you can do with four extra hours! If you want an early weekend but don't want to burn up your vacation days too quickly, try taking a half day on a Friday instead of using a full day off.

11. Bike To Work

Bigstock

If you're one of the lucky few who live within walking or biking distance of work, take advantage of it! Not only will you get plenty of fresh air, but you'll also save money on gas, which is always a plus!

There are plenty of easy ways to enjoy summer when you work a full-time job. So this summer, try out a few of these ideas and make the most of the sunshine and warm weather—while they're still around!

Need more help with your career?

Become a member to learn how to UNLEASH your true potential to get what you want from work!

Read moreShow lesssummer Featured What Can You Do If Your Employer Is In Breach Of Contract? Now Hiring: Remote SysOps Engineer 3 Important Career Lessons Learned On And Off The Field How Ex-NFL Player, Chris Gronkowski, Is Using Social Media To Change Careers