15 July 2008
Global survey shows workplace preferences of gen Y
They include a five-star reception service and "greener" offices.
The BBC media village recently hosted the UK launch of Oxygenz, a global research project into the workplace preferences of generation Y (often classified as 18-25 year olds).
The research investigates how, where and when young people wish to work, and was conducted via an interactive online survey, especially designed with generation Y in mind (see screenshot, below). Rather than standard tick boxes, the survey allows respondents to build a profile of their ideal working enivironment.
Physical attributes of workspace
It specifically focuses on the preferred physical attributes of the workspace, for example office layout, whether they want a desk or not, more collaborative spaces, and open plan or individual offices.
The survey also explores what kind of technology this age group will require in their future jobs – do they want a desktop computer, a laptop or simply a Blackberry?
Looking at global diferences
So far the survey has been launched in India, China, Germany and now in the UK. However it's accessible to everyone on the internet and has so far received 1,200 responses mainly from students, spread across 40 countries.
This research pushes our boundaries of understanding when it comes to how young people view the workplace.
Five star service
The findings from responses so far include:
- The top 3 things generation Y look for in their future workplace:
1. Challenges.
2. Opportunities for learning.
3. Location. - Over 90% want to personalize their desks, suggesting that they want more personality in their workplaces. This also implies a shift away from formal collective corporate culture, and towards a culture where they have the opportunity to to be able to express individuality.
- 99% of young people would like their offices to be environmentally friendly/aware.
- 83% would like to have at least a five-star reception service.
Environmentally friendly initiatives
Peter Eschbach (pictured, right), senior vice president, corporate practice at PR firm Porter Novelli suggests in a Hub article how you can communicate environmentally friendlier practices at your organization.
He cites the example of outdoor clothing manufacturer, Timberland. A greener world is critical to the company’s success, as the majority of its products are made for hiking, climbing, camping and generally enjoying the great outdoors.
"The company is trying to make environmentally responsible living just a little bit easier for its New Hampshire-based employees. The company offers a US$3,000 bonus to qualified employees who drive a hybrid vehicle.
Additionally, Timberland’s best parking spaces are reserved for hybrids and “carpoolers” (those that share car journeys instead of using multiple vehicles)," says Eschbach.
Workplace layout influences choice of employment
Creator of the survey, Dr. Marie Puybaraud, director of global workplace innovation at automotive and power solutions provider Johnson Controls says, "This is fascinating research that pushes our boundaries of understanding when it comes to how young people view the workplace and the role it plays in their employment choices."
By undertaking this survey globally, we'll gain a unique insight into the preferences of generation Y, how they differ across continents and how these perspectives change and develop over time," says Puybaraud.
The research is being carried out by Haworth, which designs and manufactures workplaces, and iDEA, a design company specializing in workplace, communications and strategic sustainability.
Have your say
Have you conducted, or do you plan to launch, a similar survey at your organization? Do you find that younger generations respond to "green" initiatives and being given more work-based challenges?
Discuss these issues with fellow communicators by joining the Internal Comms Hub members' group on the Communicators' Network.
Other recommendations:
Is green "the new black” for employees?
Understand cultural differences for clearer communication
A communicator's guide to generation Y
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