A Totally Rad Total Rewards Glossary

Glossary of Employee Recognition, Total Rewards, and Company Culture Terms

What is Gen X?

Generation X, also known as Gen X, is the demographic cohort following the baby boomers and preceding the millennials. Born roughly between 1965 and 1980, Gen Xers are often characterized as independent, adaptable, and tech-savvy. They are typically considered to be the middle generation, caught between the traditional values of their parents and the modern attitudes of their children.

Enhance Your Total Rewards

Total rewards can be intimidating—but Awardco makes it easy to build culture, drive behavior, and recognize the good around you. Learn more about how we help enhance your total rewards today.

Get a Demo

What kind of employees are Gen X?

Gen X employees bring a unique set of skills and perspectives to the workplace. They are often self-reliant and goal-oriented, and they value work-life balance. Gen Xers grew up during a time of rapid technological change and economic uncertainty, and as a result, tend to be adaptable and resourceful.

What is Gen X known for?

Gen X is known for its independence, adaptability, and resourcefulness. Often called the "latchkey generation," many Gen Xers are recognized for their ability to embrace change, balancing traditional values with modern approaches. In the workplace, they are often praised for their strong work ethic, practical problem-solving skills, and leadership qualities.

What type of work environment is most meaningful for Gen X employees?

For Gen X employees, a work environment that emphasizes autonomy, flexibility, and transparency is most meaningful. They value clear communication, opportunities for growth and development, and work-life balance.

Why is Gen X the forgotten generation?

Often referred to as the "middle child" of generations, Gen X is sometimes overlooked in discussions dominated by the larger Baby Boomer and Millennial cohorts. This generational group lacks the numbers or vocal presence of its neighboring generations. As a result, their contributions and challenges can be overshadowed, leaving them underrepresented in marketing campaigns, workplace policies, and cultural narratives.

How Does Gen X Impact the Economy?

Gen X has played a major role in shaping the current economy, often serving as the driving force behind businesses, innovation, and leadership. Growing up in a time of major technological change, they bring a unique perspective to the workplace. Gen Xers are at the height of their earning potential, contributing significantly to consumer spending and economic growth while also navigating the financial challenges of supporting both aging parents and their own children.

What are best practices for engaging Gen X employees?

To effectively engage Gen X employees, it's important to:

Provide opportunities for growth and development, such as mentoring or training programs
Offer flexible work arrangements, such as remote work or flexible hours
Provide personalized awards and incentives that align with their values and goals
Use technology to streamline the recognition process and make it more convenient for employees to participate
Encourage open communication and feedback to build trust and foster a positive work environment.

By tailoring workplace strategies to align with their values and priorities, organizations can harness the full potential of Gen X employees and foster a motivated, loyal, and high-performing team.

Empower Gen X with Meaningful Recognition

By fostering a work environment that values Gen X contributions, businesses can not only engage this pivotal generation but also drive long-term success. Ready to take the next step in creating a workplace that truly recognizes and rewards all employees? Schedule a demo today and discover how our platform can help you build a culture of appreciation that resonates across every generation.