It’s a boomer thing: don’t let it get to you

I’m loathed to start an article generalising, but for the sake of simplicity, it’s probably worth it.

And if I hadn’t had several millennials seeking advice of late, with an “I don’t think I can deal with the ‘boomer culture’ anymore” mentality then I wouldn’t call it out. But it is a thing, and it’s continuing – in fact, I’d argue, propelling – millennial talent to quit.

Dealing with two predominant cultures in the workplace (sorry Gen X, you are sandwiched) is becoming a heightened issued across workplaces. This generational divide if you will, between boomers and millennials, is causing major challenges – guised under issues like retention, performance, and engagement. It bothers me, significantly, the absence of understanding and division.

On the one hand, millennials are fed up with outdated attitudes and ways of working that boomers are still demanding. On the other hand, boomers are fed up with the ‘entitlement’ of millennials, their expectations and unwillingness to ‘pay their dues’. And while jokes of throwing in a referee have been cast about, it’s more than that. To deal with this challenge, what workplaces need, is a translator; someone to help bridge the gap and find a middle ground.

So, with that in mind, here are some simple translations.

Dear boomers…

I understand that we millennials are a different breed. But we do have good intent. While it might not immediately solve the problems you have with us, sharing some insight might be helpful.  The “expectation” attitude isn’t so much expectation as it is simply how we are. We’re driven to achieve, programmed for trophies and don’t know what failure is because our parents said there wasn’t such a thing. This isn’t helped with the instant gratification world we live in, where we get what we want quickly. Social media doesn’t help – we find ourselves comparing our lives to others. The ‘snowflake’ stereotype is just that; in fact, we’re resilient and deal with change well. Our values are governed around purpose, fulfilment, meaning. We take an integrative approach to our lives – work is only part of that. That’s why rigid structures, long commutes and inflexible working hours don’t work for us. Flexibility and autonomy matter. We appreciate your knowledge and experience; and how hard you’ve worked to achieve what you have. Please help us with structure, feedback, compassion, trust, and communication.

Dear millennials…

I understand that we boomers can feel like your parents at times, constantly “on your back”. But we only want what’s best for you. We grew up in a different era; the luxury of technology didn’t exist and we’re still adjusting to the efficiencies this brings. This includes communication and working remotely. Our bosses made sure we were in the office, physically, because that showed commitment and loyalty. We still prefer communicating and working with people in person because it builds trust and mutual respect. Our entire careers have been marked by effort, long hours, long commutes, and sacrifices. It’s what we know works. This includes promotion – moving up the ladder through effort, experience and time served. We’ve worked hard: at times poured blood, sweat and tears to our jobs so we can raise our families (which includes you). We appreciate your innovation, flexibility, and adaptability. Please help us with respect, communication, quality outputs, decisiveness, and initiative.  

The world is complex enough, without the nuances of generational diversity. Bridging the gap and resolving issues begins with awareness, understanding and mutual respect.