Generation Y is dependent on technology.
Generation Y is also known as generation next, net generation, millennial generation or echo boomers. Although no precise dates are attached to this moniker, it usually encompasses people born in the 1980s and 1990s, during a period of significant increase in birth rates in the U.S. The characteristics and traits of Generation Y vary by region, in addition to social and economic conditions, but a few general traits seem to be a constant.
Peter Pan Generation
Generation Y is sometimes called the Peter Pan generation, or the boomerang generation, because they seem to take longer to leave their parents' homes than previous generations, often coming back home after attending college. Economics seemed to have played a factor. Paying rent was difficult for a generation that had high unemployment rates, combined with a financial crisis in 2007 to 2010. Self-discovery seems to also play a role, as this generation is slower to choose a mate and a career, because of high expectations.
Question Authority
This generation grew up questioning their parents and teachers. They continue this pattern by questioning their superiors at work, and are not shy about trying to change the companies they work for. They are not afraid to speak their mind and like to run their own businesses so they can be independent. They don't usually take orders well and are not afraid to challenge the norm.
Tech Savvy
Generation Y grew up with the Internet, MP3 players, cell phones and intense multi-tasking. They are used to instant response from their peers via cell phones and texting. They are updated in real time when a fad or fashion has expired and rely heavily on the digital world. They are changing the way business and advertising works as a result of this.
Work-Life Balance
This group places a higher priority on quality of home life and self-fulfillment than their baby boomer parents did, who often worked long hours at the office. They want flexibility to balance their careers with their home life, and often seek jobs with telecommuting options.
Open-Minded
According to the University of Hawaii, members of Generation Y are the most diverse generation in history. They are usually more open-minded and generally accepting of alternate lifestyles such as non-traditional gender roles. They seem to be more culturally tolerant than past generations and more open to new ideas. This generation is involved, enjoys volunteering and is socially conscious.
High Self-Esteem
Generation Yers usually possess confidence and high self-esteem. They don't expect to stay in one job for long, and don't usually put much faith in employee loyalty. They also have high expectations of themselves and others. They expect success and are upset if they don't get it. They are also more stressed than previous generations and seem to experience a higher rate of psychological problems.
Tags: cell phones, high expectations, home life, previous generations, questioning their