Our top 10 tips for working with Generation Y
Generation Y are said to be the highest maintenance generation, and yet, with the right encouragement and support they could also be the highest performers.
Here are our top 10 tips for working productively with this talented pool of individuals.
1.Get to know them and understand what makes them tick. Do this by encouraging consultative communication patterns where they are able to freely express their views, opinions and ideas.
2. Give them ownership and autonomy. Generation Y have high expectations of themselves and will be motivated by challenging targets and ownership of projects and processes. They are also used to multi-tasking, so vary roles and responsibilities.
3. Involve them in decision making.
Generation Y are used to getting information at the touch of a button and this makes them one of the most informed generations - don't waste it!
4. Encourage creativity and innovation. They have been taught to be curious and question things - use this curiosity to develop new products and services.
5. Acknowledge their achievements and deal with their development areas by providing regular feedback.
Tell them what they are doing well and what they can do differently to get the results they want.
6. Explain why what they are doing is meaningful.
Generation Y enjoy challenging work that 'makes a difference'. They are socially and environmentally astute and aware of the wider community.
7. Provide opportunities for collaborative working. They are used to building relationships through social networking sites such as Facebook and understand the power of sharing information and resources. Think about how they can work with institutions outside of the company such as colleges or charities.
8. Allow flexible work schedules. Generation Y are said to 'work to live' rather than 'live to work' and appreciate more flexible working arrangements. Unlike previous generations, they are far less likely to spend a significant part of their working lives commuting or working long hours.
9. Provide opportunities for learning and development. The acquisition of skills and knowledge is important to Generation Y. Developing them for future roles such as running a 'future leaders programme' will help with engagement, retention and motivation.
10. Mentor and share information willingly.
Previous generations can help Generation Y to get 'up and running' more quickly if they share their wealth of experience through regular mentoring and coaching sessions.
Finally, it is important to remember that we are all unique individuals and there is a danger of grouping and labelling so take time to undertand each individual employee and their needs and motivations!