Generation Y Carries The Clout

Corporate recruiters eager to add members of Generation Y to their work force may have greater success if they pitch a fun working environment and growth opportunities.

Those are the two most important things that Gen Yers — people born after 1977 — are looking for in their first job out of school, according to a survey by O’Connor Kenny Partners, a communications consulting firm.

“Gen Y doesn’t have to worry about whether they will find a job,” said Christine Luporter, the firm’s director of communications. “Therefore, they have the luxury to worry about whether they are going to have fun.

“Beyond fun, they want to make sure the job gives them the opportunity to grow their careers the way they want their careers to grow — forget the traditional career path.”

More bosses are saying anchors away

When’s the last time your boss sent you on a cruise to reward good work, or just for continuing education in a relaxing environment?

Don’t laugh, it’s happening more frequently.

According to the 1998 Meetings Market Study, conducted every two years by Meetings & Conventions magazine, the money spent on corporate meetings at sea more than doubled from 1991 to 1997. Corporations spent $20.3 million hosting 6,000 meetings at sea in 1991; by 1997, that figure had reached $42.9 million for 7,600 events.

Incentive cruises — purchased by companies to use as rewards for outstanding employees — represent another hefty segment of the market. According to a study sponsored by The Incentive Federation, cruises represent 24 percent of the travel packages offered to top-producing employees.

Bold workers engage in x-rated breaks

Most employees use work breaks to run a quick errand, grab a snack, read a book or just unwind.

But a study by NetPulse for Pogo.com found that a solid 2 percent of those polled were bold enough to download pornography on the boss’ bandwidth.

The most likely offenders included Southerners, white-collar workers who earn more than $75,000 a year, unmarried workers and men, who outnumbered women 20 to 1.

This sidebar appeared with the story: Fast Facts What they want Here are the top eight attractions that members of Gen Y are looking for in their first job: 1. A fun work environment. 2. Growth opportunities. 3. Competitive salary. 4. Diversity in projects. 5. Good benefits, including health care, profit sharing, 401(K) plan. 6. Learning opportunities paid for by the company. 7. Travel opportunities. 8. Flexible work hours.