THE GENERATION GAP Today’s leaders often try to be the role models they wanted to see earlier in their careers and neglect the skills and attributes needed by the emerging generations in their teams, as Lynda Holt explains A 1946-64 cross many industries, the gap between leadership behaviours and the needs of younger people coming into the workplace is widening. This is partly because generations are evolving at a faster pace than leadership is adapting.
1965-80
1981-95
Generational discussions, differences and discontents are not new. Every 15 years or so we experience a so-called ‘generational shift’ that includes a name change and a revised set of motivators, influences and guidelines for workplace impact. The reality of such a shift is more subtle than the labelling implies, but it poses a real threat to the future workplace. Generational types and traits are derived from the key events, social trends and experiences that occur during members’ formative years. None of us are wholly defined by our generation, but we are certainly all influenced by it. Generational traits Baby boomers (commonly categorised as being born between 1946 and 1964) are regarded as company-loyal workaholics who like structure and reward, but dislike change. Generation X (1965-1980) are said to favour a work-life balance but like to get stuff done, are pragmatic and remain loyal. On the other hand, Millennials (1981-1995) are viewed as being career-motivated but not company-loyal. They also like feedback and support, as well as a sense of purpose. Generation Z (1996-2010) are values-driven and look for personal freedom and meaningful
work, with a willingness to move if these needs are not met. Generation Alpha (those born between 2011 and 2025), meanwhile, are hyper-connected, socially aware and likely to be cause-driven. Leadership age and experience profiles will vary across different industries, but those in senior leadership roles increasingly belong to Generation X and are aged between their early 40s and late 50s. They also still form the bulk of middle management, although Millennials (or Gen Y) are hot on their tails as they push into the leadership space. Gen X leaders are probably the last generation to be company-loyal leaders, espousing company values and often staying in
46 | Ambition | MAY 2023
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