“Get off my lawn.” That can sometimes be all people think about (on both sides) when they talk about Gen Y. Apparently before 10 years ago every 20 year old knew how to interview, there were no generational issues in the workforce, and (only recently) kids became selfish and self-centered.
Under 30 somethings are “different” and “spoiled” and “self-centered” and make mistakes – but it’s always been that way. There’s no mystical new finding here, it’s simply presented differently because of changes in technology and culture.
You want to know something? 5 to 10 to 15 years from now we’ll have learned and improved. Down the path we travel we’ll remember who treated us like the useless youngsters (that we are) and who helped shape us, teach us and guide our careers (into the not so useless veterans we will be). Want to take a guess at who we’ll then return the favor to and help as we begin starting our businesses and moving up the corporate ladder?
Look, I’m actually not saying that the points aren’t valid on both sides. I’m just tired of hearing the same old cliches bandied about as if there is something new to see here. “Kids these days” is a common refrain around the world. Don’t fall into the trap of thinking every one of us is the same. Don’t take the easy way out and shove that fresh out of college Gen Y to the side because they can’t help yet. You were given a chance, aren’t they?