Lisa O
Times change, and so do the experiences each generation goes through. For Baby Boomers, they grew up in a relatively safe and prosperous time. For Gen Z, it’s a whole different story. Job security, social interactions, and certainty are all concepts that separate these two powerhouse generations. Below, you’ll find 10 things that Boomers take for granted but Gen Z won’t.
Job Security
Many Boomers worked for one company for decades. They enjoyed the benefits of a full-time job and the certainty of a regular paycheck. For Gen Z, much of the workforce has shifted towards a “gig economy.” This means there is little to no job security and a non-linear approach to their careers. Many in this generation need to hold down several part-time jobs or freelance opportunities to support their lifestyle and be prepared to pivot when necessary.
Privacy
Back in the day, it was much easier to keep things “under wraps.” You could go to the local grocery store without having your every move studied and analyzed. Gen Z has never known that luxury and the fight for data privacy is real and ongoing. Whether through social media or smart home technology, Gen Z’s data is being collected and stored constantly, often without their knowledge or consent.
Home Ownership
A large portion of the Boomer generation was able to fulfill the American Dream of owning their own home. They could save up for a down payment, obtain a mortgage, and later, their hard work. Between expensive housing markets and the burden of student loan debt, Gen Z is finding it increasingly difficult to maintain home ownership. They will likely rent for longer or continue to reside with their parents.
Social Security
Social Security has been an important part of retirement planning for Boomers. They knew they could count on this government-run program to supplement or even provide a full retirement income. However, Gen Z has grown up hearing the alarms that the SS program is in trouble. With an aging population and a reduced workforce (due to layoffs and early retirements), there is little certainty that this program will exist in the form Boomers enjoyed.
Traditional Education
The majority of Boomers experienced education in a traditional classroom setting, with textbooks, lectures, and handwritten assignments the norm. For Gen Z, much of their education is shifting towards online courses, digital learning tools, and alternative pathways. This generation is comfortable with technology and the 21st-century workplace and adapts to virtual classrooms, smart learning apps, and other non-traditional educational experiences.
Gender Roles
Boomers experienced more defined gender roles and expectations. Men were the providers, and women were to remain at home in preparation for marriage. Gen Z is much more accepting of gender fluidity and equality in both their personal and professional lives. They embrace non-traditional family structures and demand both opportunity and equal pay for equal work regardless of gender.
Offline Connections
For the Boomer generation, relationships were developed and maintained offline. They met their friends and significant others in person and communicated through phone calls and snail mail. Gen Z has grown up with online social platforms and messaging apps. They find friendships and romantic relationships online and often talk to those friends more often through text than in person.
Pensions
A large portion of Boomers participated in employer-run pension plans. They guaranteed retirement income and offered a certain level of financial security in their golden years. For Gen Z, they will more than likely experience alternative retirement plans such as 401(k)s. They must take it upon themselves to save and invest for retirement, often without the guidance of financial professionals.
Affordable College Education
College tuition has steadily risen over the last several decades. Boomers were able to attend college without accruing extreme debt. Additionally, the job market often rewards their academic achievements, and they are able to earn an income to pay off those loans. For Gen Z, tuition is increasingly expensive, and the average debt upon graduation is substantial.
Separation of Work and Life
Work-life and personal life were fairly separate for the Boomer generation. They could leave their workplace and forget about their job for the evening and on the weekends. There were fewer opportunities to stay connected to the office through text, email, or social media. And if they did take their work home, it was often met with guilt and a desire to ignore it. For Z’s, the lines are often blurred with remote opportunities and digital connectivity.