The A-Z of Generation Y

Recently we’ve seen several press articles on the tastes, working habits and culture of those categorised as ‘Generation Y’. Why all the fuss? Why should we turn our attention to this demanding demographic? At first glance, it just seems experts are advising we change working environments to play to their strengths, and, in many ways, protect businesses from Gen Y’s weaknesses.

Dave Baxter wrote an article in The Business Reporter, distributed by City AM, stating that Generation Y, generally considered those born between 1980 – 1990, are often described as "collaborative, workshy, digitally savvy and anti-authority”. These are, of course, generalisations, but looking around the City, each of these ‘Millennials’ (as they are otherwise known) that I spy undoubtedly demonstrates, at times, most of these characteristics. And the scary bit? In workplaces across the world they are starting to climb the career ladder.

This new workforce breed will undoubtedly affect how companies and leaders operate and manage their teams. Let’s consider what this could mean for employers in the communications industry…

Collaboration

The possibility for collaborative working methodologies is undoubtedly a positive. Working in silos would almost be an oxymoron for any natural-born communications professional. As new sources of information emerge and communications channels constantly evolve, resources need to be pooled to ensure optimal internal communications, in order to deliver the best quality of service to your clients. Collaboration in the workplace also improves the creativity of content, allowing more perspectives to shape the final product. This is essential when vying for column inches or coverage for smaller companies in an increasingly crowded marketplace.


Digitally Savvy

Last week, Morgan Stanley gave the green light to its Brokers to post self-authored content on firm-approved Twitter profiles. The majority of journalists are also active Twitter users. In fact, with hundreds of emails and calls a day, often the most responsive and standout way to get in contact is via the social media platform. If financial journalists and advisors are using it, surely the platform is perceived as influential? Could the content even influence a share price? If communications professionals have grown up using social media, tweeting an equity story is as natural as putting something down the RNS, or indeed arranging a night out. It’s probably therefore a good thing to have Millennials as members of the team

Anti-authority

But let’s not tweet before we can talk. An anti-authoritarian attitude can be difficult to manage and, more importantly, to teach. But for Millennials, it’s more a case of a lack of awareness of authority. Due to the more regimented family lives of generations past, young people were taught, ‘only speak when you are spoken to’. However, due to the flexibility and fluidity of modern family units, relationships are more relaxed at home, which can often translate to the workplace. This modern mentality means that Generation Y simply do not feel constrained or restricted by authority, so are not afraid to voice opinions. Their creative and often well-educated minds are therefore freer to help shape a company’s strategy and business decisions. Maybe that’s not a bad thing?

At the end of the day, Generation Y is becoming a more senior and dominant demographic in the workplace. Surely it would be better to facilitate their preferences and habits in order to make the most of their strengths? A diversity of skills is an asset to any business. It can lead to the evolution of a new differentiator or USP.

But then again maybe I would say that?

I was born in 1990. Oh and workshy is just a rumour!

Stephanie Watson

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Future Faces – Bring on the summer

Future Faces on a Friday – now that is a great way to celebrate the end of another productive week in the City. The sun even poked its head out around midday, making the spectacular views from the office even more dazzling and setting the mood for the afternoon.

After the success of our last Future Faces party, The Robbie Boyd Band was back, entertaining guests with their Funky Folk sound and setting a really relaxed and informal tone to the afternoon. The party saw a mixture of the City’s up and coming analysts, brokers, and fund managers, mingling over canapés, while sipping Corona and chilled wine. For the more sensible and restrained of us there was a choice of summery, organic sparkling juices.

The turnout was great and the market banter gave all of us reason to think (and hope!) that maybe there are a few more deals out there, a pleasant change from most Julys when things in the City are starting to wind down for the summer. Quincy was MIA for this event, helping his family move house in Nigeria. His loud personality (and even louder voice) was missed but it was exciting to meet a lot of new faces who had not attended one of our events before and in return they got to meet the newest Abchaps, Jamie and myself. All in all it was a fantastic opportunity to get to know lots of new names and companies.

As Abchurch’s most recent graduate recruit, I was thoroughly impressed with the afternoon; as a newcomer to the City – it was a great way to get a better understanding of how things work and where everyone fits, in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

Olly B


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Future Faces - Easter Bunnies

The first Future Faces of 2011 was also my first introduction to an Abchurch event, which had an impressive turnout of over 100 guests, specifically 100 of the City’s future faces. Many junior analysts, brokers and fund managers joined us, along with a healthy spattering of journalists!

Feedback on the day indicated it was another resounding success, with conversation and laughter flowing well into the afternoon.

What made this particular event unique was the addition of live music, supplied by The Robbie Boyd Band, an eclectic mix of talented musicians with a uniquely “Funky Folk” sound. It set the fun and informal atmosphere in the room as guests were treated to delicious canapés, Champagne, Corona and a range of organic sparkling juices.

Being my first event of this nature it was slightly daunting meeting so many new faces from different industries but you suddenly realise that there are others in the same position, with the biggest turn out to date and lots of new faces everyone was in the same position. Personally I met some really interesting people and had some fascinating conversations and it was particularly inspiring to hear so many compliments about the Abchurch Team and how much people have enjoyed previous events organised by them.

As an intern this is really exciting to hear and I must say the event was really impressive, not only in turnout but in the attention to detail that could be seen throughout. From the colour co-ordination of the bright purple Easter eggs, to the waiters always on hand to top up your glass and a menu that was topped off with sorbet and miniature Lindt Chocolate bunnies, the choice of catering, music and company were a great combination and it certainly exceeded my expectations. Gladly the length of my internship means I will be attending the next one of these awesome quarterly events!…..

Rebecca

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