Generational Differences In The United States

Employee Motivation Based on Generational Differences in the United States

James A. Monroe

Averett University BSA 407 BBA 2-144

May 20, 2013

Table of Contents

Abstract …………………………………………………………..………………………...3
Introduction…………………………………………………………………………………4
Literature Review…………………………………………………………………………...7
Traditionalist/silent/veteran generation…………………………………………….………7
Baby boomers …………………………………………………………………….…….…10
Generation X……………………………………………………………………………….12
Millennials………………………………………………………………………....………15
Conclusion…………………………………………………………………………………18
Percentage of Workforce by Generation

Modified from data Society for Human Resource Management, 2009 Companies should understand that generational differences are essential to the enhancement and cooperation between generations. Each generation in the workforce has different needs, thought processes, ethics, and values (Jenkins, 2008). Organizations that are successful, have found ways to effectively bridge the generational gap in workforce differences to ensure that all generational needs are considered and work values are met (Hankin, 2005; Marshall, 2004). Currently there are four generations in the United States today, but many scholars propose the existence of a fifth generation called Generation 2020 (Jones & Fox, 2009; Mask 2007; Weinstein). The four generations currently working together in the workforce are Traditionalist, Baby Boomers, Generation X and Generation Y. The dates and other associated names are listed below in Table 1 (Generation Timeline). Although the date ranges are different for other researchers, I decided to focus on these dates as they are the most common found throughout the references researched.
Table 1. Generation Timeline
Traditionalists
Baby Boomers
Generation