There are two perspectives widely held by Baby Boomers and Generation X, regarding our (Generation Y’s) impatient and impulsive behavior.
The pessimists believe that we have a hard time accepting the traditional corporate culture, as it currently exists. They believe that everything we do is wrong. Even if they don’t admit it, they believe it.
The second group is a bit more optimistic. They believe that we do have potential. Yet, they feel we need coaching and that the workplace, should to a certain degree, adapt to our lifestyle, thus increasing our productivity.
These two perspectives pop up everywhere. We find them on the news, in articles, and as we enter the workplace. We constantly have to pay attention to what they are saying about us, whether it’s good or bad. This allows us not to commit the mistakes they believe we will make, and to rise above and beyond their expectations.
I get really excited, when I read case studies about businesses that are looking to develop and stimulate young people, by adapting their corporate environment.
Whether businesses invest in online tools, give constant feedback, or establish programs, talks, or activities directed towards motivating and understanding us, I feel that it’s all extremely positive. This shows that businesses are willing to really invest in our careers, and allows for a “partnership” between different generations.
The problem is that none of these efforts will help, if Generation Y’s attitude isn’t malleable enough to accept differences. I’ve heard a lot of complaints about not being taken seriously, because of young age. Of course resistance towards Generation Y exists. However, it’s often nothing that humility, observation, and sensitivity, on our part can’t change.
Perhaps, on the first day of work, we shouldn’t think about everything we learned in school, or the letters of recommendation we received, which may have caused our egos to skyrocket. Rather, we should be open and attentive, applying our focus to everything workers have already accomplished, and then see what we can offer.
Entering the workplace with a fresh perspective and willing to learn everything we can, is the first big step to stop the electric shock between generations, and to begin a new cycle, one which is characterized by the partnership between different generations.
