For Generation Y (people born after 1980) the concept of being paid for a number of hours per day or per week is an anathema. They want to work anywhere any time and you will see better employee involvement and results if you give them scope to do this. Gen Y are often able to deliver work faster than older colleagues because of increased technological dexterity. So if they can deliver the same or better output in a shorter time, is it right to ask them to sit at their desks when they could be doing something more interesting? How can you win with Gen Y?
• Explain specifically what results and standards you expect
• Measure performance on results, not the time spent
• Stop mistaking physical presence for commitment or dedication to the job
• Involve Gen Y in designing your future telephony, technology and workspaces, you may need more team spaces, drop in desks and mobile technology than old style large grey boxes in a fixed location.
*Harvard Business Review 02 2008
