A generation like the others or a new impetus? Exploratory study of Generation Y in public accounting firms

Abstract

At a time when we hear about “Generation Y” on a daily basis, to the point that the expression has been included in the 2013 edition of the Petit Robert, its place in the company is questionable. Who are they really? What are their values, codes, and expectations? Are they so different from previous generations? Given the lack of existing academic literature and the lack of convergence in the delimitation of the supposed traits of this generation, we will try to identify: What are the specific characteristics of Generation Y and their behavior in the company? And to what extent do they influence the company? To do this, we will first review the main characteristics and behaviors of Generation Y, and then, using an exploratory analysis in the accounting sector, we will see how the specificities of this generation could provide a new impetus in a profession that is undergoing a major transformation.