Generational Cohorts and Their Characteristics
Understanding generational cohorts provides context for workplace dynamics, consumer behaviour, and cultural shifts. Each generation has been shaped by distinct social, economic, and technological environments.
The Silent Generation (born ~1928–1945)
- Context: Grew up during the Great Depression and World War II.
- Traits: Disciplined, loyal, value stability and security.
- Work style: Respect authority, prefer hierarchy, and are often risk-averse.
Baby Boomers (born ~1946–1964)
- Context: Post-war economic growth, rise of consumer culture, civil rights movements.
- Traits: Hard-working, competitive, goal-oriented.
- Work style: Value career loyalty, expect recognition for experience, often prioritise personal fulfilment.
Generation X (born ~1965–1980)
- Context: Economic uncertainty, end of Cold War, personal computing revolution.
- Traits: Independent, pragmatic, sceptical of institutions.
- Work style: Resourceful, self-reliant, prefer flexibility, value work–life balance.
Millennials (born ~1981–1996)
- Context: Rise of the internet, globalisation, 9/11, financial crisis of 2008.
- Traits: Tech-savvy, collaborative, value purpose and diversity.
- Work style: Seek continuous feedback, expect career mobility, prioritise meaningful work and balance.
Generation Z (born ~1997–2012)
- Context: Digital natives, social media ubiquity, climate change awareness.
- Traits: Entrepreneurial, socially conscious, diverse, value authenticity.
- Work style: Prefer digital-first communication, value flexibility, eager for rapid progression.
Generation Alpha (born ~2013 onwards)
- Context: AI, automation, climate urgency, global connectivity from birth.
- Traits: Still emerging, but likely highly adaptive, tech-immersed, and shaped by continuous innovation.
- Work style: To be defined as they enter the workforce, but expectations point towards seamless integration of technology in all aspects of life.