Hiring trends do more than indicate the health of an economy. They seem to reflect history as it unfolds. Today, people throughout Canada watch hiring trends closely. This is because a major economic shift is taking place. An increasing number of baby boomers are heading into retirement as Generation Y rushes to fill the workforce.
It can be unsettling to see baby boomers (who hold well-paid corporate positions) retire and the “entitled generation” get hired. But when following in the footsteps of baby boomers, Generation Y may be able to emulate their secrets to success. Especially when it comes to landing jobs.
Traits and Talents of Generation Y
Generation Y has yet to define itself. As of now, it has been dubbed the “entitled generation.” However, they have many traits and talents that have helped recruiters market these job seekers to powerhouse employers.
- Optimism
Having a positive view on life and the future is a characteristic of youth. But Generation Y appears to go above and beyond this calling. A survey titled “The Multi-Generational Job Search” reports that “88 percent of millennial job seekers say they are optimistic about finding a new job.” In addition, many consider entrepreneurial ventures as alternative paths. - Lifelong Learners
Generation Y thirsts to know more about everything. The fact that they grew up with Google and were at the helm of social media speaks volumes about their insatiable curiosity. In addition, the survey claims that nearly “…half of Gen Y has considered going back to school”. - Social Media
20-something workers have been known to take a proactive approach to their job searches. They are often the ones to reach out to companies via social media networks. But these aren’t the only individuals leveraging technology to advance their job search.
Baby Boomers, Social Media, and Research
Baby boomers use social networks to connect with potential jobs too. In fact, 29 percent of baby boomers claim to use LinkedIn for networking purposes. 27 percent of Generation Y does the same. Baby boomers are also known for conducting online job searches. In addition, they use online resources to research companies they hope to interview with.
Baby Boomers Are Well Researched and Prepared
Returning to the Multi-generational Job Search survey, it is said that “Baby Boomers also take more pains to prepare for job interviews than the younger generations: 85 percent of Boomers take the time to view the company’s website before interviewing, and 64 percent search for news related to the company beforehand.”
Should Generation Y follow the lead of baby boomers in this regard, and invest time and effort in thorough research of the companies they apply to and the positions they seek, they are more likely to enter the workforce successfully.
Even though they are currently known as the “entitled generation,” if Generation Y begin following in the footsteps of the baby boomers, the future looks promising.
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