Partner Article

Are you part of Generation Y?

Not sure? Well, if you were born in the 80’s or early 90’s you are in fact part of Gen Y, a 10.5+ million* strong community. But what does this mean to you?

You are part of the fastest growing generation in business and savvy employers are keen to find out what makes you tick to allow them to secure you in their workforce. You might not have ever thought about it but if you are lucky enough to be able to class yourself as being part of Gen Y, you have some fantastic characteristics that can really set you apart but at the same time need to be understood:

• Tech Savvy – this is probably the most obvious characteristic having been the first generation to really grow up in the world of technology and the internet; and possibly the first to really embrace it in day to day life. Being able to embrace this in work and business is often just as important.
• Communication – Leading on from the Tech Savvy characteristic is of Gen Y, communication is very different to the expectations of the baby boomers. You can almost guarantee that to get a quick reaction you need to email, tweet, text (the list of possibilities goes on and on) a Gen Y rather than pick up the phone. Whilst some might hate this factor, quick and effective communication is a sure-fire way to conclude business in a flash.
• Ambition – With the rise of the young entrepreneur, Gen Y are becoming increasingly ambitious, seeking out ways to reach the top of their game, even if it means changing jobs more often than most would be comfortable with. Don’t mistake this ambition for ego or greed, Gen Y want to make a difference.
• Team Players – Whilst Gen Y’s are often pushing to rise to the top, it doesn’t go without being a team player. This is a very common characteristic amongst Gen Y’s along with an expectation for openness and transparency. Get a team of Gen Y’s together to solve a problem or achieve a task and you should be in pretty safe hands!
• Work/Life Balance – Gen Y are often misunderstood, or seen as “lazy” due to their ambition to balance work and life, adopting a more flexible working patter. It could possibly be a factor of seeing their parents be overworked to achieve or just another influence of technology giving us 24/7 contact with customers, clients and the workplace.
• Hungry for Feedback – There is no denying it, Gen Y love to know that they have achieved something and done it well, this simple recognition can go a long way for retaining a relationship and furthermore enhances and encourages the other Gen Y qualities of teamwork and communication. In return a Gen Y is likely to become a loyal contact.

So, how much of the above can you relate to? Probably more than you first realise. And why have I written this? I believe that Generation Y has a unique need and talent in life and it is important for this generation, especially those in business or a profession, to work with people who understand them. I want to highlight the importance for this generation to plan while you are young! I want to work with you to help you realise your goals through modern, effective and low cost financial planning.

@adamdeacon89

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Adam Deacon .