Most obviously, we have been raised in a technology saturated world. We are also more educated than previous generations – due to the struggle to find work, we have been staying at university longer (something I have experienced first hand). Some may say we have grown up entitled – each being taught to believe we are special, and encouraged to ask for what we want.

Naturally, this has consequences for the world of work. Gen Y have different wants, needs, motivations and preferences in the workplace. While our parents, Gen X, have had to fight to be heard and earn a seat at the corporate table, we have grown up to believe that our opinions matter. We have been encouraged to engage with and question authority, and we have an expectation of being involved in outcomes.

Let’s take a look at what motivates and drives Gen Y in our careers:

Salary and Recognition

Don’t get me wrong – salary is important to us, but it’s not the biggest motivator (especially when we are just starting out). Perhaps it’s the way we were raised, but it’s no secret that Gen Y want praise and reward. Why? Because it makes us feel appreciated and encouraged. Job title and recognition amongst peers and co-workers is also important, as are feeling valued and adding value. This leads us to the next point:

Challenging, Meaningful, Engaging Work

Gen Y are searching for purpose in their careers – and, again, this does not necessarily come from our salary! Gen Y employees feel more engaged (and productive) at work when we feel we can voice ideas, plans and concerns and actually be heard by managers.

“Making meaning, not just money”Branded-content-profit-vs-ethics2

When looking for a job, increasingly Gen Y are searching for a sense of what the company’s values and mission are, as well as what it is really like to work for your company. Gen Y seek out organisations with social responsibility, ethics and integrity, and a place where their work is of value to society. Something to think about when recruiting Gen Y employees!

Work-life Balance and Flexible Working Hours

Gen Ys have a big focus on lifestyle, and so monetary reward may not be as appealing if we cannot get time off (especially over the great Kiwi summer) to spend with our friends or young families.

Here, additional benefits such as extra annual leave, travel opportunities, flexible working arrangements, remote working, gadgets like phones, tablets/ laptops, birthday days off, company events and so on will play a large part in employment negotiations.

Technology

Growing up with technology, Gen Y employees want to work for companies that invest in being innovative. Technology enables employees to be connected to their work 24/7 and Gen Y appreciate this flexibility!

Training and Development

When Gen Y employees enter the workforce, we tend to have the qualifications but not a lot of work experience. As a result, training and development is vital. As we were brought up to be independent and go for what we want, if Gen Y employees do not receive the experience we want (and need), we will seek employment elsewhere.

Every generation comes to the workplace with their own set of wants and needs, and Gen Y is no exception! Organisations need to ensure that they cater for these, otherwise they run the risk of their employees moving on to a place that will.

What is your experience? Do you have a Gen Y story in your workplace? We would love to hear from you!