Why do we need to know things about Generation Y? What's so special about Gen Y-ers, those people born between 1980 and 2000? Well, about half of them are now in the workforce. That means they are getting married, having babies and buying things. They are the new consumers--and we would be smart to know what makes them tick.
Here are eight characteristics of Gen Y-ers.
1. They want to be heard. Young adults have had a say in how things go from very early ages. They expect to express themselves, to upload, vote, blog or update and they believe they will be heard.
2. They want to keep it real. Being unreal is being uncool. Gen Y-ers want authenticity. They value genuine leaders and people.
3. They want to have fun. They don't want to separate work and fun. In fact, they may stop working at midday to have fun for awhile and get back to work at midnight to make up for it.
4. They want their way. Growing up, they didn't often hear the word "no." As new employees, they expect to get their way and don't see why older people don't understand their perspective.
5. They want to make it count. They want to do things that matter. Meaning is as important as money.
6. They want to know. They are used to feedback. These are people who received trophies on teams just for showing up. They got lots of kudos--and they expect that now from their leaders.
7. They want to be plugged in. They can't imagine a day of not connecting with friends. Technology is an appendage.
8. They want to just do it. Their world is immediate. They seek convenience. They are not likely to waste time with committees. Stuff should happen fast.
Adapted from Elmore, T. (2001 February 2). A Crash Course in Understanding Generation Y.
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