Geriatric millennials: What are they? Are you one?
Introduction
We’ve all heard of millennials, but what exactly are geriatric millennials? As the name implies, geriatric millennials are a subset of millennials born on the cusp of the generational divide between Generation X and Millennials – specifically between 1980 and 1985. These individuals bridge the gap between digital natives and older generations. If you’re still unsure whether you fall into this category or not, continue reading to learn more about the traits and characteristics of geriatric millennials.
Key Characteristics of Geriatric Millennials
1. Technological Adaptability
Geriatric millennials grew up in a unique period when technology was rapidly evolving. As a result, they have witnessed and adapted to changes in communication styles, from analog to digital technology – including landlines, pagers, email, social media platforms, and instant messaging apps. This adaptability gives them a unique perspective because they can understand and communicate with both older and younger generations.
2. Resilience and Resourcefulness
During their formative years, geriatric millennials experienced significant events that shaped their outlook on life – including Y2K fears, 9/11 terrorist attacks, economic recession, and rapid advancements in technology. These events developed resilience within them and naturally honed their problem-solving skills, making them resourceful individuals who can adapt to various environments.
3. Combination of traditional and modern values
Geriatric millennials value both traditional aspects such as respect for authority and hard work while also embracing modern conveniences like flexible work schedules and remote working. Their ability to combine these qualities creates a unique balance that allows them to lead diverse teams effectively.
4. Empathy towards different age groups
Geriatric millennials can empathize with different age groups due to their experiences living through technological advancements that affected multiple generations. This empathy enables them to serve as effective mediators when misunderstandings occur between members of various age groups.
5. Mentoring and leadership
Having grown up in a time of rapid change, geriatric millennials have had to adapt and learn new skills continuously. This innate ability to acquire new competencies quickly makes them effective mentors for younger generations. In addition, their experiences with both traditional and modern work values make them great leaders in today’s workforce.
So, Are You a Geriatric Millennial?
If you find that you share many of the characteristics mentioned above and were born between 1980 and 1985, congratulations – you are likely a geriatric millennial! Embrace this status because it gives you unique advantages in today’s workforce.
In conclusion, geriatric millennials carry a distinct blend of traits that enable them to navigate the ever-changing technological landscape successfully. Their resilience, adaptability, balanced worldview, empathy, and leadership skills equip them with the essential tools to bridge generational gaps and contribute positively to the workplace.