Working with the post-1990 generation

Various HR directors and management consultants offered their advice on how best to work with - not against - the post-1990 generation, from which China Daily has compiled the following checklist:

Show them genuine expertise: Some of the post-1990 generation believe they have seen more of the world than any previous generation and just know everything. But the more they think that way, the more they tend to hold in true respect the company leaders with demonstrable practical expertise.

Talk to them as equals: The post-1990 generation are equal-rights campaigners, with less respect for hierarchy and administrative positions than any generation before them. Talking down to them is like waving a red flag in front of a bull, and just asking for a revolt. They like to be treated as equals. But they are also quick to learn once they find your advice truly useful.

Lead by sharing: They are the generation of social media and interest groups, in both the real and virtual worlds. Applying for jobs, making friends, choosing role models: they are always looking for shared interest.

Emphasize their own personal development: Most of the post-1990 generation don't care about how much they earn as much as about the long-term prospects for their personal development. They yearn for both a flourishing career and a colorful personal life.

Anticipate their whims: Sudden mood changes, lack of persistence at tasks, and constant yearning for something different, may all come from them deliberately seeking individuality.

Explain the rules: Traditional workplace rules don't apply because many of the post-1990 generation don't understand (or want to understand) them. They grew up as the only child in their families and were never given any penalty for breaching rules at home. So managers will have difficulty enforcing rules, unless they can explain why they are important in the first place.

Summary: In the end, managers will have to learn to work with the post-1990 generation, in a post-1990 way.

Wang Wen