To read this content please select one of the options below:

Generation “X” and the boomers: an analysis of realities and myths

Steven H. Appelbaum (Concordia University Research Chair in Organizational Development, and is Professor of Management, John Molson School of Business, Concordia University, 1455 de Maison neuve Blvd. West, Bureau GM 503‐9, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3G 1M8)
Maria Serena (Technical Officer – Accounting, Canadian National Rail, 935 de la Gauchetiere St. West, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3B 2M9)
Barbara T. Shapiro (Senior Lecturer of Management, John Molson School of Business, Concordia University)

Management Research News

ISSN: 0140-9174

Article publication date: 1 January 2005

6289

Abstract

A case study was conducted to identify and to dispel the current stereotypes in the workplace regarding Generation X and Baby Boomers. For the purpose of the study Generation X consisted of those born between 1961 and 1981, while Baby Boomers consisted of those born between 1943 and 1960. The purpose of this article was to use a custom designed survey based on the literature as the foundation to test congruence or lack of it, to address six commonly held myths presented by Paul and Townsend (1993). Furthermore it was intended to test empirical research gathered by a literature review of the stereotypes in the workplace, to better understand the profiles and factors that motivate the Baby Boomers and Generation X, in conjunction with the following independent variables: age, productivity, motivation, training, mentoring and job satisfaction. The hypothesis tested suggested that Generation Xers are more productive, more motivated, and easily trainable and exhibit higher job satisfaction levels as compared to Baby Boomers. It is important for or ganizations to recognize the limitations that stereotypes create in the workplace. As was demonstrated by the survey, Baby Boomers and Generation Xers are not dissimilar as employees; they possess more similarities than differences. Organizations need to foster an environment of respect/equity for both groups to create synergies between them to build and maintain a productive workforce.

Keywords

Citation

Appelbaum, S.H., Serena, M. and Shapiro, B.T. (2005), "Generation “X” and the boomers: an analysis of realities and myths", Management Research News, Vol. 28 No. 1, pp. 1-33. https://doi.org/10.1108/01409170510784751

Publisher

:

Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Copyright © 2005, Emerald Group Publishing Limited

Related articles