Baby Boomer Split:
Are There two Types of Boomers?

The single largest generational representation in the workforce are baby boomers. Social scientists have defined this group based on the boom in births following WW II-1946-1964. This year the youngest of the Boomer generation turns 50. Richard Perez-Pena, a New York Times columnist, claims he just turned 50 but he is not what you have in mind when addressing characteristics of boomers. He goes on to say, he thinks there are two distinct halves:

1. Boomer Classic
2. Boomer Reboot

The differences between the two deal with sex, drugs and rock n roll (these 3 characteristics are generally top of the list when I ask Boomers in my training programs what words describe them) -and economics and war. It matters if you were a child in the 1940s and 50s (that would be me) or in the 1960s and 1970s (that would be my assistant, Michelle).

The end of Vietnam makes for a sharp dividing line: In 1973 the cease-fire was signed and the last draftees were inducted.

Classic boomers (early boomers) had friends who were drafted. Reboot boomers did not.

Many Classic boomers had fathers who were soldiers in WWII.

Reboot boomers had no war, no draft, no political defining cause and most their fathers were too young for WW II.

The Boomer generation also straddles a revolution in the entrance of women into college and the workplace. The Classic boomer were on the front line fighting for equality while the Reboot reaped the beginning of the benefits
.
Finally, the economics were different for the two groups. Classic boomers lived through a period of economic growth (the wealthiest time in America was post WWII). But the Reboot boomers saw that prosperity evaporate. They grew up with a pessimism of that era.

Richard Perez-Pena suggested the gap can be summarized by the staples of radio and TV. Classic boomers grew up with "Leave it to Beaver" and Reboots "All in the Family."

Audrey presented The Art of Conscious Communication to
EKS&H

“Overall I think it was a very good training program….and she is an engaging presenter who knows her stuff.  I would recommend we use her again for communication oriented trainings. I liked the way she moved around the class-room to help keep folks engaged (although Boulder might have missed seeing her a bit?) She was very good with names – impressive really!  Only making 1 mistake that I heard with a large group….I aspire to that.

This was the first L3 session I have went to.  Overall, I thought Audrey was a great speaker – the hour and a half flew by.  Normally, I feel that trainings can drag on, not this one.  I really liked her animation and energy level.  She had great stories/examples to prove/show her point.  When I left the training, I was glad I went and I am planning on looking at her books because she spoke of things that are a great reminder to us all.”

Christine Voss
EKS&H
AUDIT/TAX/CONSULTING
Learning and Development Senior

Hi Audrey, I attended the Mile High SHRM seminar you conducted in November. I wanted to let you know that I'm finding "The Gender Communication Handbook" very informative & helpful. I'd like to add you to my professional network on LinkedIn.
 Leslie

Hi Audrey,
Thank you so much for being our DeltaDays Keynote speaker—you did a great job!  You handled the situation like the pro you are. We look forward to having you back on campus when another opportunity arises.  I wish you continued success and look forward to seeing more of your work.  Be sure to let me know if you haven’t received your check by the end of the week.
Take care,
Deb  
Debra K. Lasich
Associate Vice President for Diversity and Inclusion
Colorado School of Mines