Generation X, Y, Z

Talking about millennials, boomers, or zoomers is becoming more and more common. But do we know what makes us a member of generation X, Y, or Z? The definition given by the Royal Academy (RAE) leaves no room for doubt about the concept, defining it as “a group of people who, having been born around the same time and having received similar education and cultural and social influences, adopt a somewhat similar attitude regarding thought or creation”.

In practice this implies a common character based on more than just one's date of birth. Generations of people are defined by the shared patterns of behavior, attitudes, and beliefs that emerge within a demographic group born within a specific time period. This differentiation is done to better understand how different historical contexts and cultural developments have shaped the life experiences of each generation. It also allows us to analyze how these generational differences impact areas such as work, technology, or culture.

Generation X, also known as the post-boomer generation, grew up in an era of significant change, such as the technological revolution and the rise of consumerism. Known for their pragmatism and independence, members of this generation value job stability and financial security. Unlike previous generations, Generation X has adopted a more skeptical attitude toward traditional institutions, preferring self-employment and work-life balance.

Often referred to as the “forgotten generation”, members of Generation X are characterized by their adaptability and their ability to face challenges with resilience. In the workplace, they value autonomy but also reliability and stability so they feel comfortable developing their professional career within the same company. Socially, they tend to prioritize close and lasting relationships over having many superficial connections while economically, they seek financial stability and security for themselves and their families.

Generation Y, also known as millennials, is a generation marked by technology and globalization. They are considered digital natives, growing up in a world where the internet and social media were an integral part of their daily lives. This generation values creativity, diversity, and inclusion, looking for professions that allow them to make a difference, to be part of the future.

Millennials are known for seeking a balance between work and leisure. Although some label them as lazy or narcissistic, the truth is that members of Generation Y prefer collaborative and flexible work environments, where they can express their creativity and contribute to interesting projects. Self-care or investing in their education to develop professionally -instead of investing in material goods, for example- is part of millennials' identity traits, and they also show interest in social and environmental causes, looking for companies and brands that share their values.

Generation Z, also known as zoomers, represents the first generation to be fully immersed in the digital age. Zoomers have grown up in a world characterized by immediacy and digital interconnectedness. Unlike previous generations, they are tech-savvy from an early age, using mobile devices and social media as fundamental tools for communication and learning.

Their entrepreneurial spirit and their ability to adapt quickly to technological changes are hallmarks of Generation Z. In the workplace, positions linked to Data Science, artificial intelligence, or renewable energies are most appealing to them, as they value innovation and flexibility, looking for opportunities that allow them to explore their interests and develop their skills.

But there's more. Zoomers are also those who most value the so-called “emotional salary”, a concept that, in the words of Pilar Rojas, senior leader of Culture and Diversity at Repsol, encompasses “all those non-economic benefits that satisfy personal needs and quality of life, such as work-life balance, professional growth, or physical, emotional, or financial well-being, among others”.

These non-financial rewards take different forms and can even be adapted to the needs and concerns of different generational profiles, thanks, among other things, to innovation. At Repsol, for example, it is materialized through training and development plans, new work models based on a policy focused on work-life balance, or assistance services to promote the well-being of workers. “For more than 15 years we have been implementing teleworking, some of our industrial centers have an intensive working day all year round, and at the Repsol Campus headquarters we have a pickup point for mail, a gym, and a meditation room available to employees,” says the company's senior leader. We are therefore talking about an emotional salary that, in addition to satisfying personal or family needs, also contributes to improving quality of life and improving the work-life balance.

In short, Generations X, Y, and Z represent a diversity of perspectives and experiences that reflect the evolution of modern society. While each generation has its own characteristics, they all share a common desire for personal growth, professional development, and contribution to the world around them. Each and every one of them has something to contribute, starting with the diversity of perspectives that fosters innovation and fosters the ability to adapt to change. In addition, the coexistence of boomer, millennial, or zoomer professionals facilitates the exchange of knowledge and experiences, enriching the work environment and strengthening the organizational culture.