Generations: How People of Different Ages Can Get Along in the Workplace

Government Executive Magazine recently highlighted the work of psychologist Jean Twenge

Twenge compared high school seniors surveyed in in 1976 (Boomers), 1991 (Gen Xers), and 2006 (Millennials). . And her conclusion is a little surprising – The generations aren’t all that different. It seems that many young are idealistic when it comes to their worldview and the workplace no matter what decade they were born.

According to Twenge, every generation has certain expectations – some of them unrealistic – when it comes to work. She measured how we look at work according to these values:

• Intrinsic: interesting work, learning opportunities, being challenged
• Extrinsic: pay, promotions, status
• Altruistic: helping others, contributing to society
• Leisure: vacation time, work-life balance
• Social: interacting with others, making friends

“When it comes to generations, we might want to stop making mountains out of molehills,” says the article. “At the end of the day, we all want the same basic things out of work. Whether we’re Boomers, Gen Xers, or Millennials, we’re searching for interesting, meaningful jobs that challenge and stretch us. For jobs that allow us to support our lives and families outside work, earn respect and form significant relationships, and make a difference in the lives of others.”

Read the entire article here.