In the connected world of 2011 it appears that Generation Y is developing a new set of values when looking for that ideal employer.
Glancing over a recently commissioned study by Cisco (the Connected World Technology Report) it highlighted that nearly 35% of the 3000 young professionals interviewed prioritised social media freedom, device flexibility, and work mobility over salary when accepting a job offer. They also found that more than a third of young professionals felt it was their right to work remotely and access Facebook, Twitter and other social media sites.
Is this a case of Gen Y being spoilt by the latest smart technologies and an age of easy communication, or, is it their natural right in a modern world and should employers react to this in order to attract and retain the best talent?
Well, Cisco are predicting a dramatic shift in workplace priorities, where:
- 80% of young professionals want to be able to choose their devices for their job.
- 71% of young professionals want to use corporate devices for social media and personal use too.
- 56% of young professionals would not accept a job from a company that bans social media (or they would try to circumvent the policy).
- 66% of young professionals ask about social media policies during interviews.
Are these attitudes a realistic mainstay or a fad bi-product from high profile super employers like Apple and Google? Either way, the new generation of talent is socially engaged, less money motivated and seeking opportunities that combine the work and home life like never before.
