Generation X is known for being independent, self-reliant, and generally tough as nails. Many Gen Xers had to learn to fend for themselves from an early age, and as a whole, they developed a rather distant relationship with authority.
While not everyone fits the stereotypes, it’s helpful for others to understand the norms and tendencies of different generations. The good news is that Gen Xers are pretty awesome if you’re on their good side. The better news is that getting on the good side of Gen X is really not that hard.
‘Mind hacks’ to use with Gen X
Business creator Michael Girdley shared 10 tricks, or “mind hacks” on X to use with Gen Xers. Many of them apply to the workplace, but most can also carry over into other areas of life.
Here are Girdley’s tips in a nutshell:
- Don’t make them follow rules
Girdley says you can motivate Gen X with two phrases: “Do it your way” and “Don’t sweat the rules.” Gen X has always valued its independence. Now that they’re aging toward retirement, that’s only gotten more ingrained.
2. Send well-written emails
Gen X grew up learning to write business letters with teachers who were sticklers for proper grammar. Xers may not like rules, but they appreciate good writing.
3. Acknowledge their emails quickly
Gen X feels secure knowing what’s what and who’s responsible for things. Don’t leave them hanging.
Gen X doesn’t care about arbitrary rules
4. Focus on mission and results
Gen X cares about getting stuff done and doing it well. They don’t care about how long it takes or arbitrary rules and expectations for work times or hours.
5. Allow them to have a balanced life
Work-life balance was pretty much invented by Gen X. They don’t want the workaholic life of their Boomer parents.
6. Bond with Gen X as individuals
Independence also comes with individualism for Gen X. Don’t treat them like a monolith. (Yes, I see the irony in this list. Point still stands.) Millennials might see themselves as a tribe, and Boomers as an institution. Gen X are individuals, full stop.
7. Be direct
Gen X likes data and facts. Cut the fluff and tell it like it is.
Gen X often gets forgotten
8. Acknowledge they exist
Gen X is often called the “forgotten generation” for a reason. But as Girdley says, they are “the people in your org with their heads down, getting stuff done…take them for granted and they can bolt.”
9. Expect some pessimism
Gen X has earned its sardonic sense of humor and slight air of cynicism. “Gen X is the first generation to NOT do as well financially as their parents or kids did,” writes Girdley.
10. Expect work-life separation
In addition to work-life balance, Gen Xers like to keep their personal life distanced from their work life. They’ll be friendly at work, but may be reticent to make real friendships with colleagues.
Gen Xers are a pretty cool bunch as long as you understand how they function. They want to be seen and acknowledged, but they largely want to be left to their own devices. Contradictory? Maybe. Utterly and expectedly on brand for the latch-key kid generation? Absolutely.
You can follow Michael Girdley on X for more
