Posted on: Monday, February 17, 2003

Younger workers want to be heard in workplace

By Marybeth Matzek
(Appleton, Wis.) Post-Crescent

When it comes to work, today's young up-and-comers know what they want.

"This is cross-generational — employees want respect and they want to help make a difference at their business," said Tom Wiltzius of Right Management Consultants in Appleton, Wis.

As more members of Generation X, those people born between 1964 and 1981, enter the workplace, issues such as teamwork flexibility and balancing their personal and professional lives have gathered more attention, according to Todd Corley, who wrote the report "Becoming an Employer of Choice for Generation X: The Elements of the Deal."

Being respected and valued are other top issues among today's younger workers, said Pamela De Leest, a senior consultant with The H.S. Group in Appleton.

"But respect is not an entitlement; you have to earn it," she said.

To get that sought-after appreciation, an employee has to work hard, come to work regularly and not automatically walk out when the clock hits 5 p.m., De Leest said.

"You don't have to work 80 hours a week, but you have to show your employer that you're willing to go the extra mile," she said.

Younger workers are also more consumed by technology. Amy Emery, a planner for Omni Associates in Grand Chute, Wis., said staying current on the latest changes in software and equipment can be exhausting.

"Every time you turn around, there's another update. It's a real challenge," said Emery, 27.

Like the generations before them, Gen X-ers want to make a difference at work, Wiltzius said. "People want to be kept in the loop and to have all their opinions heard," he said.

And while younger workers are often called ambitious, Wiltzius said all workers are interested in advancing their careers and growing their knowledge base.