Generation Y in the Workplace

When I talk with Traditionalists, Boomers and Generation X they often tell me what frustrates them about this new generation. But when you understand Generation Y and how they have been shaped by our culture, hopefully it provides a different, more empowering perspective at connecting with them.

What I hear:                  They’re impatient
The reality:                   They are so used to change. Give them                                          any job on the computer and be amazed                                          at what they can do. They love things                                          moving quickly and are very comfortable                                          with change.
 
What I hear:                 They’re arrogant and rude
The reality:               Many of them actually struggle with                                          self-esteem(similar to most                                          generations) but it may come out as                                          false self-esteem. They may feel                                          insecure about their decisions (asking                                          their parents for their input) and need                                          regular feedback from their managers.

What I hear:                  They have unrealistic expectations         
The reality:                    They are ambitious (which is great). It’s                                          true that at times they need (like all                                          generations) expectations more clearly                                          defined – it’s important that they are told                                          how they can get from A to B and the                                          timeline to do so. But it’s also true that                                          they are not going to have to be the                                          workers of the Boomer generation                                          simply because the economy has                                          changed. They are living in an                                          employees market for labour which                                          means that there are many jobs for them                                          and they can be picky!

What I hear:                  They have no work-ethic
The reality:                    The truth is that that are hardworking -                                          but it depends what your measuring tape                                          is. Remember that the Boomer                                          generation had to work hard simply                                          because there were twice the amount of                                          people compared to jobs. Creating a                                          60-hour workweek was survival – but for                                          Generation Y’s they have the luxury of                                          living at a time in history with this                                          economy. 

The reality is, NO generation is perfect – we all have strengths and we all have areas we can work on! However, if we can change our attitude and ask ourselves – “What can I learn from them?”, and “What can they learn from me?” – we can start moving forward.  If you are thinking “My generation was so much better than this new generation…”, I guarantee that you will be stuck in a battle of generational clashes, low retention, and high turnover.