Strengths of Generation Y
Generation Y, sometimes referred to as the Millennial Generation, is comprised of people born between the early 1980s and 2000. They came of age when the economy hit recession status. As such, they became part of a generation with indulgent spending, thought to be irresponsible when it comes to finances and living within their means. Still there are strengths of this generation that cannot be ignored; a study by the Pew Research Center provides several statistics about Generation Y, how they work, how they live and how they interact with the world.
Good parenting is more than a marriage. Members of Generation Y generally believe good parenting can happen outside of a two person household. In the past, couples would choose to remain in a tumultuous relationship for the “sake of the children.” Generation Y parents recognize that sometimes the best atmosphere to raise children is one where the parents are not married and live in separate homes.
Gen-Y’ers have a new set of workplace practices. It’s been difficult for many Gen-Y’ers to get a handle on life in this difficult economy. According to an article in the Miami Herald, this generation is more humbled and realistic about work. They also feel that it’s more important to have a job, earn some income and survive as best they can. Gen-Y’ers have identified the value of being dedicated employees and use it to their advantage by negotiating pay raises, promotions and benefits.
Generation Y is a confident and optimistic generation. Generation Y members were in their growing years during the Iraq war, Columbine shootings, 9/11 terrorist threats and Hurricane Katrina. Despite it all, the group of about 80 million people remain hopeful about the future of the world in which they live. They are generally optimistic about making positive changes overall.
Approximately 40 percent of Gen-Y’ers were enrolled in an institution of higher learning in 2008. The Pew study also found that one in five are college graduates, and they believe in taking full advantage of opportunities that can directly benefit them, including web-based education.
According to the Pew Research Center, two-thirds of Generation Y hold either full- or part-time work. Even within the current economy, many of them have adjusted their careers in efforts to remain employed and/or improve their financial situations.
Generation Y members tend to be great team players, and see value in working with peers and being a part of collaborations. Having a more diverse makeup than generations before makes Generation Y more tolerable and open to change. They have proven their ability to change with the tide, including remaining abreast of evolving technology. This makes them one of the most techno-competent generations to date; they understand the ins and outs of technology and have the competencies to repair it when necessary.