Generation Y, or the paradox of a generation ready to do anything without sacrifice

Abstract

This paper focuses on Generation Y and tries to perceive the specificities of this generation compared to its elders, especially the baby boomers. The empirical study, based on a sample of 18,536 employees from companies with more than eleven employees, thanks to the exploitation of data from the Dares REPONSE 2011 survey, highlights that employees from Generation Y are clearly different from baby boomers. In particular, the study shows that Generation Y employees are more satisfied with their working conditions, work atmosphere, and pay than their elders. They also have more autonomy in their work, more interest in their work, less uncertainty in their jobs, and more support from their superiors or colleagues than their elders. On the other hand, they feel that their private and professional lives are less compatible. These elements are interesting in that they provide a better understanding of generational differences in the workplace.