Generation Y: Young and Getting Older

Very few things hit me as something I have to share with people in the social media space.  There’s plenty to share, but as they say, you must take care in what you post as it is always visible and will always be associated with you.  Cautious? Yes.

So what makes me laugh and prepare to press “Publish?”  This morning, I came across an article titled “Inside Gen Y: Serenity’s Believe it or Not…” on conworld.net.  You can read the article by clicking on this link.

Alone, it is funny, but tied to my own musings this past week, it is even more so.  The article speaks of the “twentysomething” mass that isn’t as enchanted with social media as we are made out to be; “we” is inserted as I find I associate with this group.  It is a necessity in the sense that we feel the same pressures to be present, but it isn’t something this strange “twentysomething” group is overly fond of.  In all honesty, I appreciate the tools, but cringe at the time and omnipresent demands placed upon me.  And, yes, I’m guilty of letting things stack up as I check in once every couple of weeks.  To those who would wish it otherwise, I apologize.

After reading the article, you’ll find some strange “believe it or not” trends that associate Gen Y habits and preferences with the young and old.  Recently, I’ve been challenged to cross the generational divide and, to say the least, it’s been a learning experience and fascinating journey.

The Young.  Pertaining to social media, most of my knowledge and involvement is the direct result of two forces: one, the stereotype that young professionals are active in the social media realm and two, my family making it very clear that they want to know the latest and greatest in my life via a number of social media communities.  My grandmother even asked me to join Skype so I could speak with her via audio and video. 

As a result, I’m a member of several communities and I try to be a responsible citizen in each, politely posting a few pieces here and there – out of respect for others opening their lives to me – and periodically answering questions so I can be a contributor to the community, rather than an observer or “taker.”  The truth is out.  I will learn and participate because I feel I must and perhaps along the way I’ll enjoy it more and continue to feel more comfortable.

The Old (with all due respect).  Knowing my initial aversion to social media communities and pressures – also known as commitments – I must admit that I did feel a little old, in a sea of “young” social media fans.  (Again, this is humorous as my industry colleagues and family seem to lead the way.)  And yet, just as I felt I was mastering the balance of being young and old in the world of communication and sharing, a third dimension arose in my life.

Outside of work, I belong to two groups that are comprised of a much older population than I normally correspond with on a regular basis.   Initially, I was perplexed by the fact that people tried reaching me on my home phone when my e-mail and cell phone would be much more effective.  My first thought: If they know my generation and have access to e-mail and my cell phone number, why do they not make the effort to utilize those channels?

Then it was my turn.  In leading a couple sub-committees, I tried reaching people via e-mail.  Ten days later, with only one response, it hit me – I need to cross a generational gap to reach them as I expected them to try reaching  me.  Stunned, I set aside some time at home with a paper, a pen and my home phone to call those I needed to reach, one by one.  At the end of the day, it was quite nice to catch up with each individual and connect on a more personal level. 

Young and Getting Older.  Of all of the lessons I’ve learned in the world of communication and collaboration, one of the most important is the need to know who you’re trying to reach and meeting them there.   I felt I was an old soul when it came to communication, until I found myself dedicating an evening to making a round of phone calls.  In just a matter of time, I know I’ll be just as confounded with the younger generations and the communication paths they choose.  As a member of the young professionals committee – and an individual who supports cross-generational understanding and collaboration – I understand the confusion and amazement that comes with building bridges and meeting people in their planes. 

We will see how things progress, but in the mean time, I will be open – albeit hesitant – but I’ll be ready for the surprises, the frustrations and the joy of communicating across various channels and “languages” moving forward.

Written By: Nora Johnson, SMMP Services Specialist, Experient; Immediate Past Chair, 2010 IAEE Young Professionals Committee