We are currently running an Executive Development Program for a group of graduates that's attached with an energy organisation. In there we were discussing about the current changes that's happening in the working environment and how it's impacting everybody.
There was a question about the current Generation Y and how companies are trying to meet midway with them. While giving my two sense worth of thought, I mentioned that it was not has challenging as what the Generation F is going thru. All eyes were wide open, completely surprised of its existence of the word 'Generation F', more so due to the letter F.
The definition of this generation are all of the Generations X,Y and Z or in short, for all those who are 35 and below. So then what's the challenge?
The current global unemployment rate is 4.5%. In Malaysia, it's 3.4%. However, if you crunch the numbers differently, it will tell you a different story. The unemployment rate for those below 25, in Malaysia is 10.9%. Worldwide, it's about 40%, which countries like Greece with 63% and Spain with 56.1%, taking the top 2 spots. So, what this tells us is that those below 25 are roaming the streets more often than just looking for the new launched phones or gadgets. These numbers are unhealthy. This adds on to the burden of the parents or care takers to further stretch their ringgit in times when 'kang kung' becomes a national celebrity.
Which means, the unemployment rate for those of that age, suffer a far more depressing situation compared to the rest of the age group, and yet there's war for good talent. What a paradox! Since organisation wants to grow and there is a need for better skilled workers but when organisation is growing leaner, these group of people are missing out and soon they will be left behind.
Whenever they apply for a job, they cannot run away noticing the line of 'x' amount of years of experience. That sticks like a sore thumb. Therefore it's check mate folks. You just graduated, you are looking for work but they all want experience workers and you don't have experience. To make matters worst, I don't think the situation is going to get any better, which means they are screwed! I guess that's how the letter F comes into the picture!
Therefore, what do they do?
2 things I had to offer.
1. If the old mantra is there's just no way, now the new mantra is 'Go Find A Way!' By any means possible, the individual must go and look out for at least something that they can do. Doing something is better that doing nothing.
2. EXPERIENCE, EXPERIENCE, EXPERIENCE. That's exactly what it is. They must subject themselves with the challenges and difficulties that life brings in order to get any form of experience, which in a way ties back to point 1. So, you go find a way to get an experience, no matter how little or how small it maybe. They must be able to take long hours and low pay, although some will preach about work life balance, but then you need to balance that with No Risk No Reward!
Get moving.
