JANUARY 8, 2009

The Future Of Work And Success

A debate over at Ypulse and PSFK between Liz Funk and Piers Fawkes caught my attention about month ago. Their discussion centered on Gen Y and the workplace, bringing to light the shift that’s taking place due to technological advances and the expectations this generation has at work.

Gen Y (also called Millennials) is often criticized for expecting instant everything. Of course, how can they be blamed for that, when they can instantly download music, instantly bank, instantly find answers, and instantly communicate? Not only can they do things instantly, but they can do it almost anywhere, thanks to wireless internet connections. This criticism is really nothing new. I’ve heard my grandfather criticize my parents’ generation for the same “right now” attitude. 

Millennials inevitably have the attitude that nothing unpleasant should be tolerated if it doesn’t have to be. Why should I sit in an hour and a half of traffic both ways when I can do 98% of my work in front of my computer on my couch? Why should I waste 5 to 10 years of my life under bleak fluorescent lighting in a room with no windows, waiting desperately for recognition of my hard work, when I see people my own age and younger being recognized right now? This generation expects to do what they want right now, on their own time, without managers breathing down their neck or bureaucracy cramping their style.

Don’t fret, presidents and CEOs: this doesn’t mean that corporations and office parks will soon go the way of the slide rule (yes, I know what a slide rule is). As with all companies facing change, the answer is to listen - truly listen - and not be afraid to adapt to employees and the technological advances that make them tick. Companies that become leaders in this area will gain a reputation for innovation and relevance, as will any product or service they provide, and will ultimate attract (and keep) young talent.