Defining the Generations

There are many different descriptions of the generations that exist in our workforce today. Making it even more challenging is the fact that many people are staying in the workplace longer than they had expected just 5 years ago. Additionally older persons are coming back into the workforce to take part-time jobs, as a result age spans in our workforce today may be greater than ever before. Here is a break-down on some of the categories:

Matures or WWII Generation
Born: 1945 or earlier

Baby Boomers
Born: 1946 to 1964

Generation X
Born: 1965 to 1980

Generation Y or Millennials
Born: 1981 or after

Many definitions are often published which vary the years slightly. In some cases we may see in print sub-generations, such as "Trailing Boomers," a younger generation of the "Boomers" which would be born between 1954 and 1964. I believe it is also important to point out that socio-economic conditions, espoused values, and many other factors may influence the dynamics of any workplace professional where their habits, values, and demeanor may cross generational boundaries.