Comments on: Directions for the Boomer Generation

By: 5 Ways to Sell to Baby Boomers | The Gen X Files

5 Ways to Sell to Baby Boomers | The Gen X Files — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 16:54:43 +0000

[...] Boomers in elderhood are typically quite set in their ways, and their strong ideology makes it difficult to sway their opinions. They often want to deliberate about any decisions and revel in the discussion more than the outcome, although they expect things to go their way. They often will make decisions based purely on ideology, rather than the practical or pragmatic. They judge younger generations (especially Generation X, born 1961-1981) as self-centered and cynical. Ideals and ideas are both important to Boomers and they often will have strong philosophical views and opinions. They are willing, and often enjoy, engaging in lively debate, but it is difficult to change their minds about their beliefs. [...]

By: Dave Sohigian

Dave Sohigian — Tue, 12 May 2009 02:53:35 +0000

@Susan*5 - "Zoomers", now that is funny! I agree on the retirement. Unfortunately I don't think many of the Boomers are going that way, especially with their portfolios being hammered by the stock market and real estate values. I wrote a piece on the other reason why they might not go quietly: http://www.thegenxfiles.com/2009/03/16/the-boomer-generation-legacy/

By: Susan*5

Susan*5 — Tue, 12 May 2009 02:03:56 +0000

I had to laugh when I heard a cultural icon say “boomers” should be renamed “zoomers” because “they aren’t really old”? However, I think many of them are learning to age gracefully.
I think one concrete way boomers can be self-sacrificing is by retiring at age 65 (or earlier). I was checking on one of my old workplaces recently and most of the managerial employees are boomers – one has retired. I must add too, that the employee that I admired the most for their personal/professional qualities was the one who retired at the usual time. The CEO is well past retirement age, but seems to have no intention of quitting.