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Over time, the workplace and workforce change. While many factors drive these changes-such as the graying of the workforce and the increasing percentage of female and minority workers-one must also consider the influence of the members of Generation X (referred to as Xers).
Today, Xers-those aged 20 to 34 in 1995, according to the Census Bureau-- make up approximately 34 percent of the workforce, and that number is growing (Maltby D1). Do differences exist between Xers and Baby Boomers (referred to as Boomers)? Some 91 percent of respondents to a recent poll of members of the Illinois CPA Society believe that workplace attitudes are different between Xer and Boomer employees (Maltby D1).
What experiences, ideas and values make Xers, unique? What differentiates them from the Boomers, who currently control the workplace as well as the government? While one must be careful about creating stereotypes, certain factors have shaped the members of Generation X-- factors to which other generations often cannot easily relate. Much like the Great Depression left an indelible impression on one generation, or Vietnam and Woodstock shaped Boomers, experiences unique to Xers can be identified. Once these factors are understood, safety professionals can work to better communicate the importance of accident causation and prevention to this group.
COMMUNICATION IS KEY TO SAFETY
Recent research on the roles of safety professionals has identified several strong needs. Key among them is the need to effectively communicate with others. After surveying certified safety professionals regarding how students in safety programs should be trained, Ferguson concluded, "Communication skills cannot be overemphasized" (82). Certainly, safety professionals must possess technical skills, but if they cannot communicate with management and workers, those skills will do little good.
The communication process is comprised of three components: sender, receiver and message. At any point, this process can break down. Since the receiver is a key element of the process, the sender must know who the receiver is and his/her experiences, ideas and values. This article examines what experiences, ideas and values make Xers a unique subgroup worthy of study and understanding.
NEGAIVE PERCEPTIONS ABOUND
The perception that others hold about Generation X have helped define it. A review of the literature reveals some stark, disturbing attitudes toward Xers. A 1989 Gallup Poll...