Igniting Gen B and Gen V

Engagement Holds the Key

For years, American companies relied on Veterans and Baby Boomers to create and sustain success. The Veterans – those born before 1946 – and the Boomers – those born between 1946 and 1964 – were ambitious, intelligent, productive and dependable. But U.S. businesses now face a crisis as the Boomers, in particular, begin to exit the workforce. Studies show that the retirement of 77 million Baby Boomers in the next decade or so will leave a shortage of around 20 million qualified employees.

A large number of the Generation X workers – those born between 1965 and 1977 – who will succeed the Boomers lack competency in basic skills such as written and verbal communication, and even common sense. While countries such as China and India focus on producing motivated, skilled employees, the U.S. is dealing with many immature, incompetent young workers.

If American businesses acknowledge the value of Baby Boomers, entice them to postpone retirement, and take advantage of their considerable skills and experience, the situation can improve. Progressive organizations understand the importance of having engaged employees. These workers look forward ...