You raised them, now manage them (twentysomethings in the workplace)

You raised them, now manage them (twentysomethings in the workplace)

Hira N.A. Fortune (Switzerland), 2007, Vol. 155 No. 9, Start page: 26, No. of pages: 7

Purpose – To consider the challenges of managing Generation Y in the workplace. Design/methodology/approach – Presents an illustrated guide to the features that distinguish the children of baby boomers, known as Generation Y. Describes the current generation of twentysomethings as “the most high-maintenance workforce in the history of the world”. Considers that they are ambitious, demanding, question everything, expect to be given productive tasks and to receive attention and recognition from the people they work for. Suggests that if their expectations are not met, they may simply go home to their parents. Acknowledges, however, that these individuals tend to demand high standards of themselves and predicts that this will be a high-performing cohort. Points out that companies will need to replace some 64 million skilled workers in the USA by the end of this decade as the baby-boomer generation reaches retirement age. Comments that young employees are therefore in a strong position to dictate terms to their prospective employers. Gives examples illustrating the attitudes and priorities of a selection of young Americans and describes some of the ways in which companies are seeking to attract and develop this workforce. Originality/value – A commentary on changing attitudes to work. ISSN: 0738-5587 Reference: 36AP257

Keywords: Demographics, Employee attitudes, Working conditions, Social trends