7 signs you’re a Gen X boss

Innovative and driven, Generation X bosses have a leadership style that sets them apart from other generations. Check out these hallmark traits of Gen X managers. 

You face tough conversations head-on

Gen Xers grew up in a time when you couldn’t cancel plans with your friend via social media or send a breakup text. Generational expert and Gen Xer Meagan Johnson says growing up not relying on technology to avoid difficult conversations shaped her interpersonal skills. 

“I think people are more comfortable with having a challenging conversation with another person… Not that you like having a difficult conversation or that you like conflict, we just realize that it’s not going to be the end of the world when we have this difficult conversation face to face.”

You’re a problem solver

Innovation is a key characteristic of Generation X. When issues arise, your employees can count on you to find a solution. 

“Back when we were latch-key kids, we came home and there was a list of things to do. We had to get it done before we could go out to play, and if something went wrong we had to solve that problem, fix it, and move on,” Johnson said. “As Gen X managers, I think what makes us effective is that we are looking to tear down silos and find better, more effective approaches to solve a problem.” 

Your generation led the push for workplace flexibility

Gen X pioneered the work-life balance movement. Although you have a solid work ethic, you remain committed to your family and expect to live a meaningful life outside of work, too. 

Baby Boomers thought Gen Xers were a bunch of slackers, but what your generation really values is autonomy. When Gen Xers began their professional careers in the 1990s, they perceived Baby Boomers’ devotion and commitment to their employer as one-sided. “What emerged was this feeling of, ‘This is my time, as long as I get the job done to a high standard, how I get it done and when I get it done is my business,” Johnson says.

You love email

If you’re a Gen Xer, your phone probably isn’t an extension of your hand like it is for most Millennials and Gen Zers. While younger generations prefer texting, email is your preferred means of workplace communication. 

Johnson described her reaction when one of her younger employees, a Gen Zer, recently text messaged her about wanting a raise. “She actually made some valid points, and she did deserve a raise…But because she communicated with me via text, which is her preferred form of communication, I found myself discounting her argument for a raise because I didn’t take texting as a serious form of communication.” 

You appreciate self-sufficient employees

Many GenXers were latch-key kids who had to grow up and become independent fast, which influenced their managerial style. Gen X bosses don’t want to hold employees’ hands or coddle them. As a Gen X manager, you appreciate resourcefulness and a can-do attitude you’re your employees. 

However, Johnson says sometimes leaders of this generation can be guilty of under-communicating, especially when it comes to the younger employees. 

“Feedback is key. Millennials like to hear from their managers at least once a day, and Generation Z is looking for that human connection from their managers, especially during this really difficult, post-Covid, post-quarantine time that we’re in.” To improve lines of communication, she suggests Gen Xers step out of their familiarity zones and communicate more, “especially since that’s what our younger team members are looking for and responding to.”

You know how to embrace feedback

Millennials and Gen Zers often find critiques hard to swallow, but you know how to take criticism constructively as a Gen Xer. You don’t require affirmation and praise.

When someone voices their disapproval or gives feedback that might be hard to hear, Gen Xers don’t wallow in self-pity. They dust themselves off and find ways to improve.

Your employees feel seen and heard

Because Gen Xers grew up without the distraction of technology, they know the importance of active listening. “I think not having access to that technology really shaped my ability to be an active listener,” Johnson says. “Really truly listening to someone is not having a phone in your hand and making eye contact.”