Welcome to Part 3 in our five-part series of generational insight, where we take a close look at how best to provide recognition to members of specific generations. So far, we’ve discussed the Mature generation and Baby Boomers, and in this blog, we are going to take a close look at Generation X and what seems to make its members tick.
X Marks the Spot
Generation X is comprised of approximately 44 to 50 million individuals, all born between 1965 and 1980. While it is smaller than the generations before and after it, its members have not let this stop them in their mission to make a mark on the world.
Some of the most common characteristics we can identify include:
- Independent and Individualistic. These individuals were born of Baby Boomer-workaholics, and hence became the latchkey kids of the 1980s. Because of this, they have a largely independent and individualistic approach to life in general.
- Adaptation Pros. Being less willing to commit themselves to employers who may flounder or a situation that may not have their “back,” members of Generation X are more prone to move jobs or positions as circumstances dictate. Because of this, they are not only flexible, but also highly adaptive.
- Techno-savvy. This is the computer generation. They are comfortable with it and have learned how to weave it into their lives.
Recognizing Generation X
When faced with the task of needing to recognize a member of Generation X, here are some tips:
- Focus on the individual accomplishment as opposed to a team. Look specifically at what the individual did and make that the highlight of the news.
- If it has to do with technology, make sure the recognition clearly acknowledges it. And, of course, if there is a way to weave technology into the recognition process…all the more better!
- Stay real and keep it non-cheesy. Gen Xers are skeptics by nature, especially of employers. Any recognition given to them should be straightforward, transparent, and as quantifiable as possible.
The perfect example of how to make this work for a Gen Xer is to recognize him or her individually in a clearly stated or written feature, such as a newspaper or magazine article. It should define the accomplishment, name exactly what he or she independently contributed to the project or effort, and then acknowledge his or her talents, skills or traits.
The Next Step
If you’ve had the distinct opportunity to recognize a Generation X in a newspaper or magazine article, then take the next step by having it preserved in a custom article mount from That’s Great News. Working technology into the mix is easily accomplished as well, especially with the latest and greatest video plaques. With this breakthrough technology, you can mount video frames and include a unique QR code that provides a direct link to the original online video. Generation X will love you for it.
We will even show you how great it will look for FREE with a no-obligation, online preview. Start today!
