Lots of buzz on-line and in the media regarding how the recession is impacting Boomers and Gen Y. But what about Gen Xers? Why is this sector of the workforce being ignored? Are people thinking that if we don't talk about this group then perhaps they will continue to stay in their roles as if nothing has happened?
Here is what I think. Gen Xers are nervous. Many have families and mortgages to worry about. Their plans to take over the corner offices have been delayed indefinitely.
But let's take a closer look at this generation. They watched their parents get laid-off from companies that were supposed to offer life-long employment (think IBM.) They also watched their parents exit the corporate world to start companies on their own. Their parents showed them that the only way to have real job security is to make sure you own the company.
Here's my prediction. (And you all know how good I am at this!) Gen Xers will sit tight for a while as they finalize their business plans in their free time at work. We will then see a mass exodus of Gen Xers (within the next two years) who will be starting new companies.
Companies will not have the leadership they need to propel their organizations forward as we move out of this recession.
Tell me Gen Xers, how is the recession impacting life at work as you know it?
