7 Reasons Everybody Hates Their Gen X Coworkers

When someone brings up Gen X coworkers, the response often involves eye-rolls or a heavy sigh. This generation — which experts describe as anyone born between 1965 and 1981 — often sparks workplace frustration. Ironically, it's actually some of their best qualities that drive their coworkers a little crazy.

That's because this group tends to show up on time, put their head down, and work hard — rarely taking a break to check their social media feeds. If you want to keep more cash in your wallet and move beyond living paycheck to paycheck, you may want to consider adopting some of their obnoxious work habits.

Gen Xers are often referred to as latchkey kids. Their parents went to work and they were expected to find their own way home from school, get a snack, and finish their homework all without supervision.

As such, gen Xers are used to being independent. This may be frustrating as a coworker when they very rarely ask for help, but they are just used to doing things on their own.

Gen Xers didn't get a lot of hand holding growing up, so their nature is to give you a task and let you figure it out, because that was what was expected of them growing up.

If you have a manager from this generation, it's likely that you don't hear from them or see from them unless they need something from you. They didn't need to be coddled and they assume you don't either.

Millennials are often talked about as the generation known for the participation trophy. This prize was given to anyone who showed up, regardless of effort or talent. Gen Xers are the exact opposite. For them, praise must be earned and genuine — otherwise it's meaningless.

While you're never going to get a compliment from them just because they're being nice, it may be nice to know that when you do get praise from this generation, it's 100% sincere. Millennial co-workers who are used to accolades for participation may feel disheartened by this attitude.

Smart Drivers, Smarter Savings.

Compare car insurance rates in Virginia

See if you qualify for a lower rate in less than 2 minutes

Currently Insured?

Yes

No

Multiple Cars?

Yes

No

Homeowner

Yes

No

Age

30-39

• 18-29
• 30-39
• 40-49
• 50-59
• 60-69
• 70-79
• 80+

Compare Quotes

By clicking the button above, I understand and agree that this site uses site visit recording technology (provided by Trusted Form, Jornaya, and Microsoft Clarity) Privacy Policy

Smart Drivers, Smarter Savings.

Great News! We’ve located some excellent quote options just for you.

Where can we send you info and recommendations?

Enter Email

Bundle Home & Auto to Save More?

Yes

No

Active Military?

No

Yes

Compare Quotes

By clicking the button above, I understand and agree that this site uses site visit recording technology (provided by Trusted Form, Jornaya, and Microsoft Clarity) Privacy Policy

Gen Xers have lived through a lot. Every type of natural disaster, the fall of the Berlin Wall, multiple economic recessions — these guys have seen it all. Their history means that they don't get riled up easily and have proficient critical thinking skills

You may get frustrated because they will often play devil's advocate as they logically think through all the pros and cons of various work decisions.

Generation X workers are in a unique life stage where they are raising their own kids while also taking care of aging parents. As such, they aren't interested in working more than they have to, and they're on the hunt for flexible schedules so that they can take care of their life outside of work, too.

If you are wanting a coworker to burn the midnight oil with, Gen X is not the generation for you. They are looking for more flexible working environments so they can take care of their other responsibilities.

Gen X typically stays at a single job for an average of five to 10 years, according to Sudina Search. But, this career longevity has more to do with stability than love or passion for their job. That's something that Boomers may find especially frustrating, because for them, company loyalty is a sign of success.

Gen X didn't grow up with technology, but are still adept at using it. Because this generation grew up without cell phones and the internet for the majority of their youth, they are one of the last generations to prioritize in-person, face-to-face connections.

Gen Z coworkers may find their desire for in-person connection particularly annoying, especially when they struggle to communicate outside of digital formats like texting and email.

While there are lots of reasons for employees to hate their Gen X coworkers, most of the things they see as a negative are actually a positive. Rather than being annoyed by Gen X coworkers, it may be time for some other generations to learn from them instead.

Their work ethic and balanced approach to life could inspire you not only professionally but also personally. Embracing these traits might even free up time and energy to explore side hustles that work with a full-time job, allowing you to build wealth and secure a stronger financial future.