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Kids these days, with their hair styles and their cell phones. A new generation is entering the work force with a rather peculiar set of expectations and behavior patterns. Raised on modern technology - personal computers, cell phones, cable TV - they expect higher salaries, good benefits and the potential for advancement. Imagine the nerve.
These are the findings of a myriad of studies, surveys, 'Webinars' along with staffing firms that are paying particularly close attention to the new crowd - called Generation Y - to figure out what makes them tick and develop strategies for companies to recruit and retain them.
An estimated 80 million strong, Gen-Y workers aged 21-28 may end up changing the culture of companies. They expect results more quickly. They see no government safety net at the end of their careers. And having been micromanaged by their parents just a text message away, they expect constant feedback from their supervisors.
"They actually are different," said Gregg Ward, a management consultant and president of CUSTOMatrix Inc. in San Diego. "We're actually seeing a lot of evidence that there's a very large difference between the (baby) boomer work ethic and the Gen-Y and Gen-X work ethic."
They're used to questioning authority - their parents and teachers - and would rather work in a meaningful job and contribute to the company than receive a fancy title and corner office.
"I'm giving a lot more responsibility a lot sooner to this generation," said Dirk Broekema, chief executive officer of On Call Employee Solutions Inc. of San Diego. "Whereas, someone like me or older than me would come in with the expectations that you have to pay your dues for two years before you're given the responsibility of something. With this generation, you...