It’s impossible to ignore the ongoing references to Traditionalist, Boomers, Gen Y, or Gen Z in newspapers, headlines, tabloids, and T.V. One has to wonder exactly how many people even know what they mean. We have all heard the term “Baby boomers” but a couple of them sound like something out of a science fiction movie. Well, these four words actually describe four different groups or “generations” of people and, amazingly enough, all four are important for any business owner to know and understand. After all, a crucial part of selling any product or service is knowing your target audience and how to effectively market your product to them. And with people working well beyond retirement years, we are looking at a time where 3-4 different generations of people could soon be your clients or even working all together.
A special thanks to Jo Disney — News and Features Editor UK for Officing Today — for shedding some light and clarity on these generation classifications. He was able to describe some classic traits classic traits and characteristics of the 5 latest generations though none have a definite start and end date.
Traditionalist: Born ca. 1925-1945
The ‘Traditionalists’, also known as the ‘Silent Generation’ and the ‘Greatest Generation’, were born and raised in turbulent times. Most experienced World War II as well as extreme economic and political uncertainty, especially during the Great Depression. This generation is typically hard working and thrifty, and often associated with loyalty, conformity, and respect for authority.
You’re a Traditionalist if: It was all about Scarlett O’Hara.
Baby Boomers: Born ca. 1946-1964
‘Baby Boomers’, also known as ‘Boomers’ or the ‘Woodstock Generation’, were born after WWII and up to the mid-1960s. In the post-WWII years, as nations slowly recovered from economic hardship, a sharp increase in births led to a generation of ‘boomers’ experiencing economic recovery, growth and a level of prosperity. Boomers are typically well-educated, hard-working and are motivated by position, perks and prestige.
You’re a Boomer if: You lived in Levi’s and L’eggs.
Generation X: Born ca. 1964-1982
Following the baby boom, ‘Generation X’ or ‘Gen X’ arrived. Young GenX’ers experienced influential global events such as The Vietnam War, the Cold War, and the Thatcher-era government in the UK. This group grew up in an age of two-income families with a high number of women joining the workforce. They are often seen as independent, resourceful and self-sufficient. Observers claim that Gen X is more open to diversity and cultural differences than previous generations.
You’re Gen X if: You owned a pair of Doc Martens.
Millennials: Born ca. 1982-2002
These are the ‘Millennials’, also known as ‘Generation Y’ or ‘Gen Y’. The earliest members of this demographic grew up at a time when households began introducing personal computers, while the youngest arrived when home computing and office technology was well established and experiencing rapid development (for instance, Microsoft released Windows XP in 2001). Gen Y is often associated with a tech-savvy lifestyle, always-on culture and a desire for work-life balance.
You’re Gen Y if: You played Arkanoid and Pac-Man for hours.
Generation Z: Born ca. 2002-Present
The generation that is currently being born is the ‘Cyber Generation’, also known as ‘Generation Z’ or ‘Gen Z’. This young demographic is being born into an age of high-tech communication, dominated by multiple mobile devices, social media, and constant connectivity.
You’re Gen Z if: You learned how to swipe a tablet screen before you could speak.
Which generation are you? Which generation are most of your clients? Part of being business savvy is to stay current and relatable to your audience and understand the commonalities and differences that exist amongst them. Sitting down face to face with potential clients, writing a letter, teleconferencing, e-mailing, or texting–whatever it takes to reach the generations of people you are serving—Heritage Office Suites has the tools you need to do it. Fully furnished office space, meeting rooms, conference rooms, multi-suite opportunities, live phone and reception services, ultra high speed internet service, prestigious business address, and many other support solutions, Heritage Office Suites takes care of the details of running your business so you can focus on driving clients to your business.
To learn more, call (512)-377-9010 or visit us on the web at www.roundrockoffices.com.
Source: Officing Today
