Daily Archives: October 2, 2008

So How Networked are You?

Posted on October 2, 2008 | Leave a comment

Just over half of American adults (53%) say that they are currently employed with full or part-time work. Among those who are employed, 62% could be considered “Networked Workers” who use the internet or email at their workplace.

Networked Workers are not only connected while at work, but they are also more likely than average Americans to have access to a wide array of technological assets outside of the workplace. They are more likely to own cell phones, desktop and laptop computers, and personal digital assistants (PDAs). Among Networked Workers:

  • 93% own a cell phone, compared with 78% of all American adults.
  • 85% own a desktop computer, compared with 65% of all adults.
  • 61% own a laptop computer, compared with 39% of all adults.
  • 27% own a Blackberry, Palm or other personal digital assistant, compared with 13% of all adults.

Do you think these numbers will change as Gen Y continues to enter the workforce?

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Posted in Workforce Statistics

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Crazy Business or Brilliant Start-Up? #4

Posted on October 2, 2008 | Leave a comment

In even the best of relationships, disagreements are bound to arise from time to time. For those with no clear resolution, a new site offers a way for each member of a couple to tell their side of the story anonymously and let the crowds decide who’s to blame.

Launched earlier this month, Pittsburgh-based SideTaker begins the dispute-resolution process when one member of a couple submits their side of the argument on the site. A link is then e-mailed to that person’s significant other, inviting them to add their own side. Only when that happens does the story go live on SideTaker for the perusal and ruling of the visiting crowds. In one of the most popular stories currently on the site, for example, a woman describes a husband whose self-proclaimed frugality prevents him from flushing the toilet regularly; in another, a man describes a girlfriend who’s gaining weight but refuses to exercise. Users of the site can vote on which side they agree with or leave comments to express their opinions. Using the ad-supported site is currently free, and visitors can search stories by recency, popularity and number of comments, as well as a variety of tags. Stories remain up on the site for two months, or until both sides indicate that the conflict has been resolved.

Coming soon on SideTaker is a section for relationship help, featuring expert advice, and ultimately the company hopes to expand its concept into other areas as well, according to its site. I have already covered checkyourimage.com, which facilitates personal image appraisals—where else could consumers benefit from the wisdom of the crowds in their personal and social lives….?

Website: www.sidetaker.com
Contact: www.sidetaker.com/contact.php

HT: Springwise

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Posted in New Business Ideas

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What not to Ignore about Gen Y

Posted on October 2, 2008 | Leave a comment

The companies that are most successful in the coming years will be those that attract and retain the best talent, and realize the need to change their culture to match the needs of the workforce.

Gen Y will comprise a large percentage of the workforce so you will not have the luxury of refusing to address their unique needs. Employers that are sensitive to the following Gen Y needs will have a distinct advantage at retaining young workers and the opportunity to reap the benefits of A-level talent in the increasingly competitive marketplace:

  • Flexibility: Work/life balance is no longer a buzzword among Gen Y workers. Happy to be held accountable to results, this generation wants to have control over when and how they go about their work. They desire true balance in their lives and seek flexible work schedules. They relish the option of being able to telecommute or work from a home office.
  • Career-pathing: Millennials seek upward mobility. They want to not only know what is expected of them in their current job, but more importantly, what skills they need to develop to move onto the next position.
  • Feedback: The annual review is no longer enough for millennials. This generation expects feedback and validation more often. Gen Yers want employers to notice and react to their performance. Show them how they are making an impact and how their work contributes to the bottom line.
  • Training: If you want a job well done, employers need to tell these workers how to do it. But don’t just give orders, give the reasoning behind them. Besides offering complete training programs provide a mentor to help bridge gaps.
  • Access to technology: Many Gen Yers are used to having the newest and best technology at their fingertips. E-mail and Internet access are musts. They also might expect to be allowed use of iPods and PDAs on the job.
  • Open communication: Showing these workers appreciation for individuality and letting them be expressive will keep them around. Allow them to have input in the decision-making process — they want to be heard and involved in all aspects of the organization. While they are skeptical, Gen Yers value fairness and ethical behavior.

HT: Jim Peduto

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Posted in Workforce Generational Trends

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