Gen Y in the Workplace

While doing research on Generation Y, I continuously came across articles talking about hard it is to work with Gen Y. At first I was taken aback by what I was reading. I began to question not only the work ethic of those around me, but my own desire to succeed in the corporate world. Suddenly, I realized that the arguments on the screen in front of me were the same talking points that were aimed at every previous generation I could think of.

In the eyes of an older generation the youth of today will never be as efficient or dedicated as their own. Many of the arguments sited issues with dress code and inexperience. I personally believe that Gen Y is just as capable if not better equipped to flourish in a corporate work environment.

Though these arguments are flawed, many of them point out several of the eccentricities associated with Generation Y. We are, and will continue to be, an individualistic generation who loves their flip-flops and jeans. However, I can’t imagine that for many a dress code would be a professional deal beaker. Speaking from my experience, uniforms have been something to adhere to since grade school. To me, being asked to dress appropriately isn’t an outlandish request; it’s to be expected when in a professional situation.

Since the dress code argument was null and void in my mind, I moved on to the inexperience argument. Each generation faces a time when they, too, are new to the corporate work environment. Regardless of what we learned in school, the knowledge of books can never surpass the knowledge gained in a real work environment. I believe that, thanks to Generation Y’s virtual upbringing, our knowledge of the way things work has far exceeded the marker set by previous generations when they entered the work force.

Though I can see why an older generation would be leery to accept Generation Y into their corporate family, it will be necessary for growth in the marketplace that both the Gen Yers and corporate leaders learn to adapt to their new family members.