News has a story today that is the leading edge of what could become an interesting issue:
EMPLOYERS frustrated by their failure to communicate with Gen Y workers are turning to psychologists for help in a desperate bid to improve relations and boost productivity.
…Gen Yers are likely to send a text message, email or post on Facebook if they are sick instead of phoning the boss. Employers complain that many have never worked a day in their life, still live at home well into their 20s and, when they do get a job, don’t know how to behave properly.
“They often have an attention span of no more than five minutes and are used to doing things based on the sound of a bell or when told,” one psychologist said. “Unlike other generations, they have grown up in affluent times and with technology. They have high expectations and will not hesitate to leave if they don’t like where they are.”Data from the Australian Business Apprenticeships Centre shows declining completion rates for apprentices and trainees. The centre is running forums using consultant psychologists to help employers work out their communication issues with Gen Y staff.
I’ll note first that this is a ridiculous and quite insulting paraphrase from a crap paper run by baby-boomers that have driven property prices to the point where nobody can afford to leave home.
Nonetheless, there may be an element of truth here. In my experience, Gen Y’s enjoy a sense of self-worth that could make life difficult if times get tough.
