I haven’t heard that description used for Gen Y until I read this BusinessWeek.com article – Netting the Net Generation.  The article is a good read for managers who have Gen Y employees.  Some of the information is fairly common, but I thought this point was well stated:

However, don’t assume this technologically sophisticated generation is made up of solitary video game players. Generation Y is highly relationship-oriented and uses a wide range of media and technology to connect with others. They expect to experience this in the workplace as well. Give them opportunities to engage and share ideas and to work on new things. Traditional behaviors that define power as possession of knowledge to be doled out sparingly are anathema, and failing to encourage openness and the sharing of information will turn this generation off.

We often assume technology equals isolation, but that is not necessarily true today.  In fact, it is probably the polar opposite.  This younger generation uses technology in ways that are new to those of us in the older generations.  That is a subtle, but important point when managing Gen Y.

Their willingness to change jobs is a trend we see every day in our sourcing activities.  Their approach to work has placed a new pressure on managers when it comes to retention.  This pressure will only increase as Gen Y expands in the workforce.

The managers who figure out how to manage them will be in the highest demand.  One place to start is here:

Their loyalty is strengthened by timely, open, and honest course correction that occurs on a continuing basis, not just once a year. This may require some updating of the counseling and performance management skills of your line management, and perhaps the performance management processes themselves. Young people have less patience, and job-hopping is prevalent; help prevent it by giving them the chance to soar inside your own organization.

That is sound advice for managing any generation, but it is paramount for increasing retention among your Gen Y employees.

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