An introduction for meshing recent graduates into the workforce; Facing the challenges of Millenials shaking up the job market
Who they are…
According to Yahoo! HotJobs, there are currently 80 million Millennials, also known as Gen Y’ers, worldwide. Generation Y – born between 1979 and 1999 – have been submerged in technology since they took their first breath of fresh air. They have grown to become working professionals and become Wii champions in their spare time. In this digital age, listening to an iPod, socializing on the internet, or having a Bluetooth permanently attached is a means for survival. They stay connected to be connected!
What you should know…
This article provides a general understanding of millennials when you strip away their gizmos and gadgets. Remember three points while speaking with them:
First, they are “people.”
Millennials have had access to many channels of communication throughout their life. It has provided ample experience to enhance interpersonal skills and has evolved the ideal “people” skills. In addition, the chat and publishing tools at their fingertips have made them conversationalists and authors.
Beyond modes of communication, the melting pot culture, and access to the globe via the web, have taught them to truly appreciate diversity, enabling them to work with people of all backgrounds. In addition, they have been raised in a society that leaves no child behind, encouraging group involvement. This learning environment has fostered the perfect team players.
They are engaged in society.
Millennials know what is going on. They stay connected to the news, sports, and weather with the touch of a screen. Access to the world’s events is without boundaries. Downtime is minimal – Smartphones never sleep. They always communicate with the world around them through blogs, chat, forums, Facebook, and texting. Call it “Information Overload” if you must, but there comes knowledge with the abundance of material accessible. They have the tools and the information just as they have their opinion. Their voice is their right. They can spread it across the globe, and as you can see, they certainly exercise it.
They work hard and play hard.
Once they find their desired career, they see their commitment through. Money is no longer the most excellent motivator in the job market. Millennials need recognition and connection, not just a wage. With the advances in technology, workers are more valued than ever. The users of such technologies are businesses’ most significant assets. As long as you provide them with a creative and innovative culture that supports their ambitions and goals, they will stay valid for the long run.
The organizational culture should support their hard work, dedication, and freedom to create and discover. There should always be room for play. Take Ask.com, for instance; they have an Official Ambassador of Fun on staff. Look at Google’s success; they give their employees 20% of their time to work on their projects. Bottom lines, rules should allow some leeway – if the employees have incentives, they will be more motivated to show you what they can do.