Discussions surrounding workplace trends tend to focus on the youngest generation, Gen Z, and how to engage them. They’re the fastest-growing cohort of employees, and I myself have written about them—topics like career minimalism and accomplishment hallucination. Millennials also get their fair share of attention, but what about Gen X?

Last year, a controversial New York Times article, The Gen X Career Meltdown, painted those born between 1965 and 1980, particularly in creative fields, as having largely obsolete skills. Many readers, however, disagreed. “A new article tried to write our obituary. We’re just getting started,” replied a Gen X author, Jonathan Smalls.

As CEO of a company with over 900 employees representing the full spectrum of generations, I firmly believe that each age range brings unique skills and experiences to the table. Nurturing Gen X employees is just as critical as Gen Z or Millennials. Here’s why.

Where Gen X Are Uniquely Qualified

Observing the dynamics in my company, one area where Gen X employees tend to shine is soft or “power” skills. Having come of age when working remotely was the anomaly, most Gen Xers are accustomed to working together in person. They spent the early years of their careers learning firsthand how to become effective communicators and collaborators, honing skills like active listening, and leading and participating in meetings. I notice that they’re naturally inclined to socialize with their colleagues throughout the day—things like water-cooler chats and midday........

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