Working with Gen Y?

Gen Y (aka the Millenials) is a bit of a mystery to us Boomers and Gen Xers.  They seem to have different values, are on the internet all the time, and don't seem to care much about having an actual conversation.  This can be confusing, frustrating, and tiresome.  On the other hand, as leaders, we know our role is to attract, motivate, inspire, and retain these people and for many of us, we are at a loss.

"They just don't seem to fit in" one leader said.  

"They are always on the internet."

"It's difficult to connect to them."

For the first time in history we potentially have four generations working alongside each other.  If we thought our parents didn't understand us - consider working with three generations.

Don Tapscott has done an excellent job in providing a great deal of research regarding Gen Y (aka the Millenials).  Check out his book "Growing Up Digital" if you want more info (http://www.growingupdigital.com/).  For a quick reference guide on how to attract, retain, and work with this group, read below.

• Very technologically savvy - utilize this to your advantage.  Ask for their advice.  Have them teach others in the department. 
• Can find anything on the internet and quickly - utilize them to research trends, new processes, find equipment, and people.  They have spent their entire lives on their internet and know how to use it.  
• Expect excellent technology at work - iPhones, Droids, laptops - these are all basic equipment for Gen Y and regardless of their position, they expect to have and use their technology throughout the day.
• Well Connected - you may think they never talk to people but they are connecting all day long - through Facebook, twitter, and instant message.  This is their preferred method of conversation.  They don't want to sit through long meetings.  They can connect and collaborate in virtual chat rooms just as easily.  
• Cliff Notes Version - This is a cliff notes era.  What I mean by that is they are accustomed to communicating in short bits of information and you will lose them with long, drawn out conversations and meetings.  They don't watch entire television shows, they go on youtube.com and watch the highlights.  They don't read entire books, they get their information through short blog posts.  We have to be aware of this in the workplace.  
• Intellectually Smart - Tapscott's research suggest this generation may have an increased IQ of up to 20 points simply based on the amount of information available to this generation.
• Socially Awkward - At least in the traditional way we think of socializing, this group can be awkward.  Tapscott's research also suggest the EQ (ability to relate to others) of this generation could be down an equal amount.  They may have a very difficult time with conflict resolution and getting along with others in the workplace.  
• Creative - This generation is smart, creative, and their critical thinking skills are exceptional.  They spent their lives filtering through information and discerning what is accurate and true.  Include this generation in your problem solving discussions and be willing to listen to their ideas.  

The key is not to label anyone with all of these traits but be aware of them as you work with Gen Y.  You may want to reconsider your technology policy and not be so quick to push these individuals aside simply because they are young.  They have a lot to offer if you can get past the differences.