The Facebook Generation at Work

During several recent speaking engagements (e.g. Louisville Alumni Lunch and Learn, UK Business Marketing classes, Northern Kentucky Alumni event, and Project Managers International meeting), we have talked about the challenges of having four generations working side-by-side and how we often stereotype each generation. New resources continue to emerge on how to better manage multigenerational workplace challenges. Father-daughter team Larry and Meagan Johnson recently published Generations, Inc.: From Boomers to Linksters - Managing the Friction Between Generations at Work. They specifically focus on the Facebook generation, also known as the Linksters. These 15-19 year olds have some common traits. They live and breathe technology; are more tolerant of alternative lifestyles; are best friends with their parents; and are very involved in green causes and social activism. The Johnsons go on to share 10 Tips for Managing the Facebook Generation. A few of the highlights include:

- Provide them with job descriptions and very clear directions
- Incentivize task accomplishments
- Treat them as valued coworkers
- Create microcareer paths
- Lead by example

What advice would you give to young professionals entering the world of work?

What Employers Need to Know about Recruiting Millennials

The Millennial generation (born between 1981 - 2001) is just beginning to reshape the workplace. They are known for being achievement oriented; technologically savvy, and socially conscious. In addition, they are strong advocates for diversity and teamwork. As baby boomers are exiting the marketplace and competition increases for new grads, progressive employers are changing their recruiting strategies to be more attractive to those in the millennial generation. Some changes include: offering earlier and frequent opportunities for responsibility, project management and supervision. Employers who offer internships, mentoring and opportunities to give back to society (i.e. increasing the company match on charitable donations, allowing employee’s time to teach at local schools during the workday or supporting community service events for the company) will have a lead on keeping pace with their hiring needs. An excellent example of a company that supports their employees becoming involved in the community is Dean, Dorton & Ford, CPA’s (This firm also recruits at the UK James W. Stuckert Career Center). They encourage employees to give back to the community by serving on boards and participating in a wide variety of charitable and professional activities.