The key for employers is to realize and accept that people communicate differently and to embrace the new techniques while also teaching the Gen Y workers that business sometimes still needs to use traditional methods of communication. Gen Y workers need to use those excellent com- munications and diversity skills to learn to socialize and communicate with people of all ages and back- grounds.

Generation Y Perception: Needy REALITY: Okay. The reality here is that Millennials are indeed pretty needy. Again, though, it’s not really their fault as their parents basically trained them that mom or dad is just a phone call away. In fact, there are stories of Generation Y job-seekers taking a parent along for the job interview or to help negotiate the job offer.

The key for employers is to realize that this gener- ation -- at least when they are new to the workforce – need a bit of special care and handling. There’s no way they can go months without a review; they need

constant (and not too critical) feedback. Gen Y workers need to realize that the reality of the workplace is that it’s not like home or college -- and that they are expected to do an excellent job without always wanting praise and being told how good their work is. Finally, Gen Y workers need to tell mom or dad that it’s time to stay home so they can learn to fight their own battles.

Final Thoughts About Gen Y Workers In the end, of course, every person -- every worker

-- is judged on his or her merits, not on generalities or misconceptions. Still, based on the research and anecdotal evidence, it may be a bumpy ride for both employers and Gen Y workers in the years ahead.

Dr. Randall S. Hansen is founder of Quintessential Careers, one of the oldest and most comprehensive career development sites on the Web, as well CEO of EmpoweringSites.com. He is also founder of MyCollegeSuccessStory.com and EnhanceMyVocabulary.com. He is publisher of Quintessential Careers Press, including the Quintessential Careers electronic newsletter, QuintZine. Dr. Hansen is also a published author and writer, and is often quoted in the media and conducts empowering workshops around the country. Finally, Dr. Hansen is also an educator, having taught at the college level for more than 15 years. Email him at randall@quintcareers.com.

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