What is Gen Y? Gen Y meaning
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Gen Y definition
Generation Y (Gen Y), otherwise known as millennials, generally refers to anyone born between 1981 and 1996. Gen Y follows Generation X and precedes Generation Z.
Generation Y was raised with technology as a part of their everyday lives and was the first generation to grow up with the internet. In the workplace, Gen Y thus values innovation and digital integration within workplace processes.
The Gen Y demographic seeks collaboration and workplaces that actively promote open communication and diversity. They are attracted to organisations with strong corporate, social and environmental values. As work-life balance is important to Gen Y, they view personal life and professional commitments with equal importance.
Furthermore, this entrepreneurial generation seeks opportunities for continuous learning. They respond well to feedback and thrive in workplace environments that provide room for growth. It is therefore important for organisations to acknowledge these characteristics in order to attract and retain Gen Y employees.
Real-world context
- Flexible working and work-life balance: Gen Y seeks workplaces that offer flexible workplace arrangements. To attract such talent, organisations should look to offer remote work options, flexible hours and the ability to balance work with other life commitments.
- Providing purpose-driven initiatives: As Gen Y employees are motivated by purpose-driven work, they appreciate organisations which align their missions with social and environmental causes. Workplaces should therefore seek to incorporate corporate social responsibility initiatives into working life to provide Gen Y employees with a sense of purpose.
- Technical innovation: This tech-savvy generation looks for workplaces that promote technical innovation. To attract Gen Y employees, organisations should foster a digital-first culture, embracing modern tools and providing technology-related opportunities for learning.
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