Everyone likes to think that they are the best person for their job and no one else could possibly do it better. But, as it turns out, out of all the different generations, baby boomers think they are the most valuable workers.
A new survey conducted by Talker Research between October 21 and 24 has revealed that 30 percent of Americans would call baby boomers—people born between 1946 and 1964—the most reliable workers.
Interestingly, when the 1,000 U.S. adults were categorized by age, the data showed that each generation thought their own was the best, but boomers in particular were most inclined to vote for themselves. According to the survey, 71 percent of boomers think their generation is the most valuable in the workplace.
In comparison, 54 percent of Generation Z—people born between 1997 and 2012—voted for their own age group, and 44 percent of millennials—those born between 1981 and 1996—said themselves.
Although an overwhelming majority of boomers think they are the most reliable employees, the younger generations don’t seem to agree as much. In fact, just 1 percent of Gen Zers and 2 percent of millennials voted in favor of boomers.
With their years of service and extensive experience, Arianny Mercedes, founder of career consultancy firm Revamped, told Newsweek that it is no surprise that boomers back themselves as being the most valuable workers.
Mercedes said that, for many boomers, all those years of hard work equates to a “depth of expertise” that isn’t easily replicated. This gives them a strong sense of perspective and lends them the perception of being “the backbone of their organization.”
Mercedes, who has several years of experience in talent acquisition, labor markets, and recruitment, said: “Having witnessed and adapted to numerous economic shifts and industry changes, they bring a level of stability and insight that many employers cherish. Their familiarity with company culture, industry standards, and operational protocols positions them as knowledge keepers.
“Boomers often take pride in their work ethic and commitment to their employers. They tend to view their dedication as an advantage, believing that their willingness to invest time and effort distinguishes them from younger employees who may prioritize work-life balance,” Mercedes continued.
However, that doesn’t mean boomers are faultless, as Mercedes said they can face numerous challenges in the workplace. As they are among the older employees, they can struggle adapting to new technologies or face generational misunderstandings with younger colleagues.
As younger people come through the ranks, boomers must alter their communication styles and learn to navigate changing times to avoid creating tension. With that in mind, Mercedes said that providing support and upskilling all employees can bridge the gap between generations.
“As the workforce becomes increasingly diverse, some boomers may feel marginalized or undervalued, particularly if they perceive a bias toward younger workers. This anxiety can lead to a defensive stance, where they feel compelled to assert their value actively,” Mercedes said.
“It’s essential for organizations to foster a culture of respect and open dialogue to facilitate understanding and leverage the strengths of each generation,” she added.
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