- Generation Gap at Workplace
- Generation Gap Workplace - Home
- Introduction
- Traditional Generation Employees
- Baby-Boom Generation Employees
- Generation-X Employees
- Generation-Y Employees
- Attitudes toward Work
- Loyalty toward the Employer
- Attitudes Regarding Respect
- Training Needs & Training Styles
- Generational Differences Activities
- Work-Life Balance Benchmarks
- Attitudes toward Supervision
- Generational Difference Functioning
- Management Styles
- Useful Resources
- Quick Guide
- Useful Resources
- Discussion
The Traditional Generation Employees
The first generation of the American workers comprises of people born between 1922 to 1945, and are now believed to be living a semi-retired/retired life in most cases. Members of this group have been witness to a great post-Second World War depression in their lifetime, in addition to some other major events. These experiences have affected their lifestyle to a great extent.
Characteristics of Traditionals
A survey conducted by "The National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Association Office of Diversity" suggests that the members of this generation are noncomplaining, love formality, stand by their commitments, obey rules, are loyal to their employers, have dedication toward their work, and believe in teamwork & partnerships.
Traditionals are characterized as those who believe in a top-down chain of command, need respect and normally are hesitant in implementing things that are not done earlier.
They can be categorized as people who like to pay their bills in time, love their profession very much, and rarely venture outside its perimeter.
They are also described as stability-loving people, needing to know everything in detail before committing, avoiding changes in their workplace, avoiding uncertainty and normally not challenging authority.
They are not very efficient in handling conflicts and prefer to be silent rather than disagreeing vocally.
Traditionals prefer developing their communication skills and are known for their tendency to save and conserve.
They are characterized as individuals who believe in technological development; continue to work with uniformity and consistency in all possible situations.
Influenced by the military operations during Second World War, they are happy to follow command, obey the hierarchical structures, and give respect to their leadership in their workplace.
In addition, the traditional generation employees are mostly disciplined, responsible, patient, resilient, and good at accommodating financial restrictions.