The Marketing Industry and Generation X and Y

1570 Words4 Pages

From X to Y: The Generation Gap, and its Effects

Introduction

Generation X, children born between 1965 and 1976, the first generation of children defined as ‘latchkey’ (oxford, marketing 4th edition). Living in an era of “dual-income” families, Gen X children were often left alone, and thus developed a sense of independence, and resourcefulness. Unlike Baby boomers, where equality was a core value, Gen X experienced more cultural diversity, higher levels of education, with some even attaining college degrees. Gen X is also extremely flexible, while they are loyal and committed to their jobs; if a better opportunity presents itself they would grasp it in a heartbeat. Gen X is determined and enthusiastic about life, growing as individuals, and increasing their qualifications. However, they believe themselves to be self-sufficient and choose to rely on themselves to reach their goals (Sally Kane, About.com Guide). While Gen X was growing up, so was the technology around them, allowing them to witness and adapt to devices like smartphones, computers, laptops, which were invented then. Few Gen X’ers are now starting to retire, while others have reached the peak of their careers. At this same time, Generation Y has started to obtain influential positions within their companies, with many others graduating from college, and joining the working class now.

Generation Y are children born between 1977 and 1994. There are many names that can be given to Gen Y, most are incorrect. The most fitting name for Gen Y is “Millennial”, as they are the largest generation to date. While Gen Y does have the most convenient access and adeptness with technology, they are in no way tech savants and as such digital natives aren’t an accurate way to descr...

... middle of paper ...

...005

Author(s): Calin Gurau

Source: Journal of Consumer Marketing Volume: 29 Issue: 2 2012

Author(s): Violet Lazarevic

Source: Young Consumers: Insight and Ideas for Responsible Marketers Volume: 13 Issue: 1 2012

Author(s): Archana Kumar, Heejin Lim

Source: Journal of Services Marketing Volume: 22 Issue: 7 2008

Author(s): Jessica Libby

Source: Journal of Consumer Marketing Volume: 19 Issue: 6 2002

(Foscht et al., 2009; Manpower, 2007).

(Moore and Carpenter, 2008; Loroz, 2006;

Richard K. Miller and Associates, 2011b; White et al., 2008).

www.emeraldinsight.com/0736-3761.htm

Journal of Consumer Marketing

29/2 (2012) 103–113

q Emerald Group Publishing Limited [ISSN 0736-3761]

[DOI 10.1108/07363761211206357]

103

(Bakewell

and Vincent-Wayne, 2003; Beard, 2003; Cowart and

Goldsmith, 2007; Martin and Turley, 2004; Noble et al.,

2009; Rich, 2008)

Open Document