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As the youngest generation in today’s workplace, Generation Y was born between 1981 and 2000. Generation Y is as large as the Baby Boomer generation, accounting for 75 million Americans today.

As children, Gen Y has been coveted by their parents, who made them the center of attention. Gen Y has grown up with a huge emphasis on personal safety. After all, this generation has seen the Columbine shooting, September 11th, Desert Storm, Megan’s Law and the Oklahoma City bombing.

Despite the call to stay safe, Gen Y has grown up as independent and creative, always seeking ways to further their personal development. Gen Y values a global perspective, social responsibility and does not hesitate to question the status quo. They are among the most well-educated generation to ever enter the workforce.

Once committed, Gen Y brings optimism, enthusiasm and technical savvy to the workplace. They are completely comfortable and embrace rapidly-changing technology. They may even resist workplace changes if they feel that there is a better way to leverage technology to achieve a goal.

Previous generations may find Gen Y’s confidence and mental processes uncomfortable, thinking that their minds often work as fast as their technological gadgets. Yet Generation Y has the ability to take incomplete data and bridge the gaps with intuitive leaps, often landing right on the mark.

Here are some tips for communicating with Generation Y:

• Take a positive, collaborative approach
• Ask for their ideas and input
• Avoid treating them as inexperienced or your children
• Utilize their technological savvy
• Agree upon next steps and follow up quickly
If you want excitement, energy and enthusiasm, you will get it from Generation Y! Gen Y’s have several strengths they can offer in today’s workplace. Show them they are respected and valued.