Who is Generation X?

Born:                                  1965-1980
Nicknames:                      Gen X, Generation X

What Are the Cultural Shapers for Generation X?

This was a generation where divorce rates soared and more mothers entered the workplace
(no, this is not about blaming mothers but rather to explain how cultural shifts impact a generation).  This is when the term ‘latchkey kid’ surfaced and I certainly remember this growing up. Many of my friends went home to empty houses every day because both parents were working.  As a result this generation tends to be highly independent (unlike Gen Y which tends to be more dependent). This generation also experienced 2 recessions and many saw their parents lose their jobs (often after years of loyalty), which makes them more reluctant to commit to jobs long-term.

What is the DNA of Generation X?

This generation tends to be highly independent and resourceful. They want a strong work / play balance and don’t want to be “work-alcoholics’ (or that’s often how they “see” it) like their parents. They are well educated, tech savvy and entrepreneurial. They tend to be hard-working during work hours but often want to leave by 5pm, and they will usually not hesitate to change jobs to advance themselves professionally.