Generation Next Changing Today’s Workplace

Over the past several months, have you experienced challenges integrating your newest employees into the workplace? Are you preparing for this summer’s class of new recruits and interns? If so, make sure you set aside some time this Friday evening to watch “Generation Next Changing Today’s Workplace,” hosted by Judy Woodruff on your local PBS channel.

Woodruff will report that your newest employees are the product of parents and teachers who praised their every move while growing up. Now, Generation Next brings an attitude that they’re special to the workplace.  One corporate CEO notes that Generation Next has been told, “You’re smart, you’re different, you’re the smartest generation, you’re the most tech savvy, you’re going to be different.” These same messages will likely make it difficult for your newest recruits to fit into a corporate or firm mold.

Related Things You Need to Know

Developing Allies at Every Level

Allyship may be the “missing link” that can help organizations ensure inclusion actually occurs.

When You Need to Get to "Yes"

Because of covid-19, many employers will have a unique opportunity to discern how well their summer hires manage conflict. My contacts indicate that this year’s summer associates and interns have been assigned to group projects. Disagreements are inevitable when any team goes through the process of forming, storming, norming and performing. Additionally, since most summer hires will work from home, they will need to negotiate with family members or roommates over who gets access to the best printer, the extent to which background noise needs to be minimized during Zoom calls, and who and when someone can just walk into their workspace for a quick chat.

Proving You're a Professional During a Shortened Summer Program

Because so many summer associate and internship programs have been significantly curtailed, the students who will participate in these shortened programs must avoid unforced errors. Like never before, summer hires will have very few opportunities to demonstrate their capabilities. How they handle one or two assignments will create critically important impressions.

Learn More

Order Mary'sbooksto learn the 100 things interns, new hires and summer associates need to know to succeed.

Let Mary Know

Do you have questions or want to see Mary speak at your school/employment? Reach out to Mary for more info.

Contact Mary