Saturday, October 2, 2010

What Gen Y Really Wants - Time

Just read a great article about what motivates generation Y, namely the 20-somethings in the workforce. With the increased availability of technology Generation Y has constant access to work. This is much different than the Baby Boomers who maintain a work-life balance by seperating work and family. Generation Y has to work harder to find the right blend of work and life. The lines between work and home don't really exist.

If employers want to recruit, maintain and motivate Generation Y they need to think creatively about promoting a work-life balance. This generation is more willing to check their pda's and email at home and on the weekends if they have flexibility during the week. Many also have a high achievement orientation which makes telecommuting and working from home a great option.

Understanding Generation Y is important for managers at all levels because one day soon, Generation Y will be the bosses.

1 comment:

Sulaima Starr said...

Very interesting. I wonder how many employers are actually recognizing this. Afterall, they say it is generation Y that will bring the most innovation to an organization. I think it comes with a company's desire to improve their sustainability as well.

But this presents another challenge to our organizations. One of the biggest challenges is getting generation X to work productively with generation Y and be open to new ideas and new ways of doing things. It seems like many individuals have a real issue accepting that things are changing. Work styles are becoming less regimented and generation Y is able to think 'outside' the box.

That's not to say that there is still a need for methodical thinkers, but there needs to be room for new alternatives so that we can continue to grow with the world's changing economy.