By Chris Hillman, Executive Recruiter, Packaging Industry
http://www.searchpathofchicago.com
While the Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) are inching closer and closer to retirement, the Gen Xers (born 1965-1976) and Millennial’s (born 1977-1993) still have a few years to go. The Baby Boomers seem to be prolonging their careers; a recent study found that the number of older employees in the workplace will mature by 11.9 million resulting in close to 25% of the workforce being senior by 2016. How will this change the packaging industry talent pool?
When they retire, we’ll be saying goodbye to the characteristics of Baby Boomers in the packaging industry that include:
- A mentality of working their way to the top
- Competitive
- Logical
- Aversion to technology
- Organized lifestyle (both home and work)
- A mentality of living to work
- Monetary motivation
- Loyal
- Direct communication vs email or text
The next generation up are the Gen-Xers, and they have a few unique characteristics that may alter managerial processes, rewards/recognition means as well as work environment:
- Desire a balanced life with work family life
- Reliance/expertise in technology
- Rather be motivated with freedom than monetary value
- Want a structured work environment and schedule
- Self-reliant
- Prefer immediate feedback and communication
- Individualistic
On their heels, are the Millennial’s and while they are similar to the Gen-Xers, there are still a few differences to take note on when looking to hire:
- Entrepreneurial mindset
- Goal-oriented
- Constant “What’s Next” mentality and multi-tasker
- For them work is a means to an end
- Team players
- Prefer to communicate through email and voicemail
- Prefer flexible schedules and freedom
- Restless: always looking for the next thing
All generations have their pros and cons and while a job title or bonus was meaningful to The Baby Boomer, the Millennial may be more keen on being rewarded with a flexible schedule or opportunity to expand their skill set rather than staying stagnant in one role.
Knowing your employees and what motivates them can help retain them and keep them loyal to your company. Everyone is different, and finding out what drives them by understanding their generation will be key to long and successful tenure.
Contact:
Chris Hillman, Packaging Recruiter
email: Chris Hillman
Telephone: (815) 261-4403
