Generation Y, those between the ages of 16 and 29 (depending on the source), is comprised of more than 75 million people and is transforming the traditional workplace as we know it, according to a recent BusinessPundit post.

As more and more baby boomers start to retire, the number of Gen-Yers in the workforce is only going to increase, which is why business owners and managers need to listen up. Generation Y has a lot to bring to the table. They’re tech-savvy multi-taskers with good networking skills, and they introduce real innovation into the workplace. But if you want them to work for you, then you’re going to need to understand a few things about them.

Gen-Y employees like to have a lot of input and control over their jobs. They’re not just mindless order-takers. They have ideas and opinions and are not afraid to voice them. They also like to maintain a work/life balance. This is where things like telecommuting and flexible scheduling might come in handy. Finally, Gen-Yers want to make a difference. They want to see the impact that their work is making on the company, and they want to feel like they’re making a difference in the world.

As a member of the Gen-Y crowd myself, I’m proud of what my generation has become. We grew up in the age of baggy jeans and dirty flannel shirts, trolls, and worst of all the “Macarena.” Despite all of that we turned out pretty OK. Then again we also had such cultural masterpieces as Nintendo Gameboy, Super Soakers and “The Simpsons,” so I guess it all evens out.

Anyway, small businesses in nature are primed to meet the wants and needs of this growing sector of the workforce. If they don’t embrace this generation and take advantage of their competitive edge, they’ll likely miss out on a huge opportunity.

Have a great weekend!

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