| Okay, just who is this all-elusive Gen Y segment, anyway? Well, for one, they're very easy to find–nearly 79 million (26% of the U.S. population) of them! And they're a vital segment for ensuring long-term credit union industry success. Here's a quick Gen Y snap shot.
Challenging & High-Maintenance–Generation Y has grown up in a culture of praise, where every effort is rewarded. Now grown up, many older Gen Y'ers expect the same treatment from college professors, managers and bosses.
Ain't Afraid To Speak Their Minds–Gen Y favors self-expression over self-control. While generations before them might fear approaching authority figures, Gen Y'ers go out of their way to do it.
Very, Very Impatient–Raised in a world dominated by technology and instant gratification, Gen Y does not have the patience to deal with outdated technology or slow-moving events. Gen Y likes fast-paced stuff.
Off-The-Chart Skeptical–Generation Y grew up witnessing the scamming, cheating, lying and exploitation highlighted in the media, involving everyone from sports figures to politicians. They also watched parents and other family members lose their jobs to mergers and downsizing.
Adaptable, Yet Demand Flexibility–Gen Y'ers are used to adapting to various situations, and are comfortable in a variety of environments. However, they demand flexible schedules and put their family and friends before work and school.
Goal-Oriented & Ambitious–This generation has high expectations for themselves. They aim to work better and faster than their colleagues and school mates. Gen Y'ers are also efficient multi-taskers.
Ultra-Ultra Technologically Savvy–Keep in mind, Gen Y grew up in the age of technology. It's all they know, and they can't live without it. Surrounded by the latest gadgets, this is a "plugged-in" learning-oriented generation.
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