Generation Y was born around 1977 to 1994*. It is the fastest-growing sector of the workforce.
Also known as the Millennials, many of them are now starting their first jobs. The Baby Boomers (1946 to 1964) are currently retiring, making way for Gen Y.
Soon Gen Yers will surpass the previous generation (X) in the workforce. This is a generation defined by contradictions.
It is the most educated, culturally diverse, wealthy, optimistic and tech-savvy of all the generations so far.
You’ve prepared well, done the interview and now you’re breathing a big sigh of relief because you think it’s all over.
Don’t stop now. There are still a few more things to do, while eagerly waiting for that important phone call or email saying, “Congratulations! You’ve got the job.”
Here are a few tips to further impress your future employer:
First impressions count. Let’s face it, we all judge someone when we first meet them, even if we don’t know the person all that well. We make assumptions and prejudicial decisions.
Research proves that one third of employers will make a hiring decision in the first 90 seconds of a job interview.
A confident, positive attitude when you enter the room accounts for 55% of the impact in the interview. So, make those first 5 minutes count.
Proper preparation therefore is the key to a successful job interview.
Desire for a successful career and full life influences job choice.
Global research from Accenture, titled ‘Defining Success', has found that more than two-thirds of professionals around the world say they can “have it all.”
In fact, both a successful career and a full life outside work are important. Many choose a job based on its potential impact on work-life balance.
84% of both gender groups in South African believe they can have a successful career and a full life outside work.
However, 49% also said they cannot “have it all at the same time.”
Generation Y (or Millennnials) have many qualities that are valuable in the workplace.
Their optimism, open-mindedness, confidence, energy and fearless approach to technology, has a positive impact motivating and inspiring colleagues.
According to the 2012 Cisco Connected World Technology Report, this generation is “more agile, more informed and more responsive than any previous generation."
"They live to connect and communicate.” This is of great value to employers.
Over and above the 4.6 million unemployed South Africans looking for work, there are an additional 2.3 million discouraged job seekers. People of working age who have given up on finding a job.
Unemployment is a harsh reality for many people. Often gaining a tertiary education to increase their chances of employment is just not possible from a financial standpoint.
