As Gen X enters leadership positions, workplaces become more family-centric
Trend - Older members of Generation X–a.k.a, Gen XS–are family-focused. At the same time, this generation has many financial responsibilities that require dedication to the workplace as well. This makes work/life balance a point of tension; however, as this generation enters leadership positions in the workforce, they're able to enact changes that are conducive to family-centric work cultures.
Insight - Though it may have started with Gen XS, the rise of family-centric work culture can be credited to many different factors. One is the redefinition of what it means to be a parent in the modern age. More dual-income households and moms in the workplace can be observed, but the pressure to still be as physically and emotionally involved in a child's upbringing as possible remains. Family-focused workplaces cater to this "superparent" ideal.
Insight - Though it may have started with Gen XS, the rise of family-centric work culture can be credited to many different factors. One is the redefinition of what it means to be a parent in the modern age. More dual-income households and moms in the workplace can be observed, but the pressure to still be as physically and emotionally involved in a child's upbringing as possible remains. Family-focused workplaces cater to this "superparent" ideal.
Workshop Question - What could change about your corporate culture to become more family-centric?
Trend Themes
1. Family-centric Workplace Culture - The rise of family-centric workplace culture is driven by the redefinition of what it means to be a parent in the modern age where more dual-income households and moms in the workplace can be observed, and super-parents want to be involved in their child's upbringing as much as possible. Business professionals can capitalize on this trend by creating policies and environments that support a work-life balance.
2. Fertility Perks for Women Employees - The influx of fertility perks for women employees, such as egg freezing, vitro fertilization, mental health sessions, and wellness coaching, is becoming more accessible and affordable for consumers and companies. Business professionals can explore offering these benefits to attract and retain female talent.
3. Family-friendly Co-working Spaces - Flexible, parent-friendly co-working spaces and emergency child care centers are available to cater to parents, and these offerings could make a big difference in the lives of balance-seeking parents with unpredictable schedules. Business professionals can consider offering these spaces to improve employee satisfaction and productivity.
Industry Implications
1. Human Resources - Human resources professionals should monitor trends and changing expectations of a modern workforce to retain desirable talent and improve employee satisfaction with policies and benefits offerings.
2. Tech/startups - Tech and startup companies may need to lead the way in creating diverse work environments and modern benefits packages to attract and retain skilled employees, not just in terms of salary, but also by being more accommodating to parents and families.
3. Co-working Spaces - Co-working spaces should consider catering to families and offering flexible child care, additional privacy accommodations, and more to appeal to professionals juggling parenthood and career demands.
