Skip Navigation

Navigating a Multigenerational Workforce



How many generational labels can you count? There's the "entitled Millennials", the "un-tech savvy Baby Boomers" and the list goes on and on. But did you know that each generation has something to offer to their team and to the company they work for?


As Generation Z, those born after 1996, enter the workforce it will become more crucial than ever to learn how to navigate the generational differences within your office. Through understanding and attentiveness, co-workers can tap into one another's strengths, varied experiences and world view to boost a company's bottom line.

Here are the primary key-points you need to understand if you are entering or returning to the workplace or are currently working within a "melting pot" of generations. 

Baby Boomers

Born between: 1946-1964



Baby Boomers have extensive work experience and have worked up the ranks to achieve professional success. Through their decades of work, they are known to be hardworking and motivated by their position in a company and perks provided. They typically believe the generations born after them need to "pay their dues". As this generation experienced a large "boom" of men and women seeking work, they tend to be more competitive within the work environment. Today, they make up 27% of the U.S. workforce.

What they Value in a Work Environment:

Baby Boomers tend to be workaholics but have a lot of work experience they are willing to share with those around them. For those who come from subsequent generations, seek to learn from your more seasoned counterparts--they are wanting to take you under their wing.

Gen X-ers

Born between: 1965-1979

Key Traits: Independent workers, innovative, and strong communication skills


While this generation marks the period of a birth decline after the baby boom, they are expected to outnumber Baby Boomers in the workplace by 2028. Individuals from this generation value work-life balance and are very flexible and adaptable to change. Of this generation, more than 60 percent attended college and tend to be more "ethnically diverse" and more educated than those before them. Typically, they prefer to work independently and seek environments with fewer rules that may constrain their work.

What they Value in a Work Environment:

Gen X-ers value their work but also the time they spend with their family. When they are "off the clock", they are out of their work-mindset and focused on loved-ones. Within the workplace, they strive to communicate to and be communicated with directly by their leaders and colleagues.


Born between: 1980-1995

Key Traits: Tech-savvy, collaborative, and focused on putting their time and effort into "the greater good", seek meaningful work, want to learn new skills



What they Value in a Work Environment:


Gen Z-ers

Born: After 1996




What they Value in a Work Environment:


While each generation brings their own "personality" to the workforce, it's important to remember the generational values to create a cohesive company that can utilize each generation's skillsets to its advantage.

To learn more about Generation Z's career aspirations, check out the JA Teens & Career Survey.


Donate Volunteer Request A Program

Any questions? Contact us!


I understand