September 28, 2023

Gen X vs. Gen Z in The Workplace

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The workplace dynamics between Generation Z (born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s) and Generation X (born between the mid-1960s and early 1980s) can be influenced by their different experiences, values, communication styles, and approaches to work. Here’s an overview of potential differences and how they might interact in a professional setting:

Technology Proficiency:

• Gen X: Adapted to technology as it evolved and may not be as tech-savvy as Gen Z. However, they have gained substantial tech skills during their careers. They witnessed the rise of the internet, and experienced the transition from analog to digital technology.
  • Key Points:
    • Adapted to technology as it evolved
    • Grew up with the rise of the internet, and experienced the transition from analog to digital technology. (PCs, dial up internet, Pay Phones)
• Gen Z: Grew up with advanced technology and is often more proficient in using digital tools and platforms. They were born into a world of smartphones, social media and instant access to the internet. They adapt quickly to new technologies and are comfortable with digital communication.
  • Key Points:
    • Grew up with advanced technology and fascinated with the latest digital tools and platforms.
    • Immediately born into a world of smartphones, social media and instant access to the internet.

Communication Styles and Social Media:

• Gen X: Values direct and face-to-face communication, often placing importance on verbal conversations and established protocols. They appreciate professionalism and clear boundaries. They value more traditional communication methods such as; a phone call and leaving a voicemail vs. A phone call and leaving a text message instead of  voicemails for Gen Z. Gen X is still adapting to social media platforms later in life, if at all. They tend to use email and may occasionally participate in social media, but it’s not a central resource in their lives as it is for younger generations.
  • Key Points:
    • Values direct and face-to-face communication
    • Use more traditional communication methods such as a phone call and leaving a voicemail
    • Reaches out by phone first followed by Text.
    • Guarded with social media platforms
• Gen Z: Tends to prefer informal and immediate communication through digital channels like iMessage, social media, and emails. They value transparency and are accustomed having instant communication channels available through multiples platforms. They prefer any type of digital communication instead of having a phone call with someone.
  • Key Points:
    • Tends to prefer informal and immediate communication through digital channels like iMessage, social media, and emails.
    • Communication most starts with Text followed by phone
    • Prefer any type of digital communication and use phone as last resort.
    • iMessage vs Text Message. Blue = Good, Green = Outdated

Cultural Influences:

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