Success for Generation Y

The definition of success slowly changes from generation to generation. Many factors contribute to changes in the way we think about success. Technology, the economy, our experiences, government, the media, as well as many other reasons change our thought process. Remember the first time you watched MTV cribs? Didn't your mindset change...if Snoop Dogg can have such a ridiculous lifestyle, why can't I?

It's important to recognize the new definition of success when working with the new and upcoming workforce. These individuals have unique needs and desires that many in the corporate world do not understand. Today's college graduates are leaving college and moving back home with mom and dad. I used to think that these graduates would jump at the first offer they get, but I've actually witnessed the opposite. Many have a security blanket in place with their parents, so that they can continue to "find themselves" while searching for a career. They have a roof over their head and orange juice in the fridge, whether they come home with a paycheck or not. This creates a unique situation where today's graduates don't necessarily have to jump at the first opportunity that presents itself. They can hold off and continue their search for their "dream job". There are graduates out there who are unwilling to work their way up. They desire to make an impact right away, and today's employers must recognize that. They see themselves like a major league baseball player, as a free agent who has no problem going elsewhere if the opportunity is better. Please remember that "better" is based upon the individual. We must understand each person and how THEY view success. We need to sit with our people, ask them questions, find out what drives them. Then, as an organization, we must create an environment of growth and incentives to motivate each individual with the purpose of helping the larger team goal.

Generation Y is looking for a career where they can make a difference. Where their efforts are recognized and valued. They do not want to work in the mail room, they want to redesign the way in which the company communicates via social media. Gone are the days of wanting a house with a white picket fence. Today's graduates want to feel empowered, to help change the world, they want financial security so that they can volunteer and make a difference. They don't want to just work for a pay check, they want to help change the game and get paid accordingly. Please don't think that this thought process is naive. It's a valuable commodity and if you don't scoop them up, my organization sure will. It's vital to create an environment for these individuals, where they can impact the organization right away.

Gen Y is accustomed to working in teams, and earning trophies, and they are in pursuit of recognition. They played soccer since they were 5, earned standing ovations in the high school musical, have always been praised whether they won or lost. But how do we cater to this new class of people? The necessary environment is created through positive mentorship and coaching. Most young people want to be rich. To get money out of the way in order to pursue their passions. But who is going to help them? Who is going to walk them through the minefield? This is one of the biggest issues with the corporate structure. Each individual is in competition with each other for the next raise or promotion. There is no unity or collaboration when it comes to advancement. I've seen too many times a person train the new guy, only to find out that the new guy is their replacement. Thanks but no thanks. This is the corporate non sense that turns today's up and comers running for the hills, usually in frustration.

The trouble for young people is finding people who are truly where they want to be in life. Gen Y is not only looking for monetary success, but they recognize success in relationships, with their family, and community. They have witnessed divorce first hand, the effects of alcoholism and an absentee parent. Gen Y is looking to make a change, and many of them want to actually help their friends and family in the process. Many are looking to entrepreneurship to fulfill these needs. They want to be in control of their calendar, their income, of how big of an impact they can make. We must encourage and fuel this entrepreneurial mindset in order to progress.

As a mentor to Generation Y, I strive to create a partnership of respect. I respect the ideas and beliefs of everyone within my organization. I push to lead by example, and to practice what I teach. Young people know a phony a mile away. They are quick to click away a pop up ad, without even reading the text. They will do that to you, if you do not have a genuine interest in them and what they are looking to accomplish. I challenge my team to duplicate the success displayed in front of them, but to also innovate with counsel in the process. We must all welcome change, it's the only way in which our organizations will remain relevant over the next decade. And to the Gen Yers out there, keep pushing and tearing down the walls of corporate complacency, let's move forward together, towards making an impact within our local and global communities.