Embracing Generational Diversity

by Jennifer Dang, Program Partner

“Slaaaaayyyy!” the Gen Z blurts out at any given moment while the Millennial, Gen X, and Boomer sits there puzzled, wondering what all the new terms the kids are saying these days. As an elder Gen Z who is newly joining the workplace, I often find myself being the youngest on the team. This comes with the unspoken responsibility of keeping my coworkers young while somehow making them “feel old” at the same time. All the while, my fellow Gen Z-ers feel as if we are not being respected because of our lack of “real world” experiences compared to everyone else. So, I wonder… how can we truly appreciate and embrace the generational differences both in our professional and personal life to better understand each other? Well, it starts with recognizing and valuing the strengths and contributions of the generations.

Baby boomers (1946-1964)

As wonderful mentors and guides, the younger generations have so much to learn from you. The insight you offer leads us in the right direction. You truly walked so we could run.

Gen X (1965-1980)

Independence, family-oriented, and work-life balance screams Gen X. You are firm in your values and have integrity that is admirable. Please share any tips with us to have better work-life balance!

Millennial (1981-1996)

How are y’all doing out there? You excel in getting tasks completed and being efficient. Challenging the status quo is in your wheelhouse, and I love that about you. And as a reminder, taking care of yourself is a priority, not a privilege.

Gen Z (1997-2012)

Oh, my fellow Gen Z friends. You DO have experience and knowledge that is valuable. Your open-mindedness and innovative brain gives me hope for the future, and your adaptability is unmatched. I know that you can be the change this world needs.

And with that, I leave you with some Gen Z language to add to your vocabulary:

Slay = you did an amazing job

“Omg, you slayed that project!”

Tea = gossip

“What’s the tea?”

Rizz = charisma

“She really knows how to win everyone over, she has rizz.”

No cap = no lie

“I met Taylor Swift, no cap.”

*Can also be used as a verb “capping” = lying

The math is not mathing = something is not adding up or doesn’t make sense

“They said they stayed home but were seen at the party… the math isn’t mathing.”

Mid = average

“That brunch spot was mid.”

Ate = to pull something off well or have a lot of success with something

“That outfit ate.”

“You ATE and left no crumbs!!”

Period = emphasizing something that was said

“I love when women support women.”

“Period!!”