December 05, 2011
Whether it’s a sign of society’s growing dependence on technology or just another facet of the modern workplace, nearly half of workers aged 16 to 24 claim they would not work for companies that ban social media sites.
According to new research from recruitment firm hyphen, use of online networking sites while at work is now an expected from younger people, with nearly two-thirds believing that access to social networking actually increases their effectiveness as an employee.
By comparison, just 28.3% of 35-44 year olds say they wouldn’t work for companies that banned social media, dropping to a 19.8% in the 45-54 age bracket.
“The impact of social media on the UK’s younger workforce is very evident and is something that should be both accounted for and sufficiently appraised by businesses. ‘Generation Facebook’ has grown up with 24/7 social media access and they see no reason why LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter should not also play a part in their working life,” said Zain Wadee, Managing Director at hyphen.
“Tailoring benefits and office policies for the younger generation and making adequate provisions for the use of social media in a professional context is a worthwhile consideration for all businesses wishing to attract young talent.”
In addition to social media access, the top choices of employee benefits for young workers are a day off on their birthday, duvet days, gym membership and out of work social events. This contrasts with 35-54 year olds who rate pensions, flexitime and medical insurance as premiums.
