AUSTRALIAN EMPLOYERS must embrace new communications technologies as part of their workplace toolbox or they will fail to attract and retain the new generation of tech savvy workers
AUSTRALIAN EMPLOYERS must embrace new communications technologies as part of their workplace toolbox or they will fail to attract and retain the new generation of tech savvy workers.
“Technology will have far greater influence in the workforce in coming years and it will play an enormous role in productivity, cost-efficiency and staff retention,” according to Australian Computer Society (ACS) president, Philip Argy.
“Generation Y workers are already embracing the more flexible options made available by new technologies such as wireless communications.
“As office and home environments continue to merge, this will create what we are calling an uncollared workforce, with workers seeking out employers that best meet their lifestyle requirements,” he said.
Commenting on the release of an ACS report, The Uncollared Workforce, Argy said there were three factors that will combine to shift market power to employees for the first time in over two decades: the impact of new communications technologies such as wireless communications on the younger ‘Gen Y’ worker; the retirement of thousands of Australia’s baby boomers in five to ten years; and increasing skill shortages – particularly in the information and communication technology industry.
“With the growing impact of skills shortages confronting most industries in Australia, forward thinking organisations will review their workplace arrangements now to make sure they can cater for greater flexibility,” Argy said.
To be effective in this new workforce, all professionals – particularly those aspiring to managerial roles – must have an understanding of technology systems and their applications, according to Argy.
“Australian corporate structures will have to undergo radical changes to meet the work/life demands of Generation Y, who do not put priority on being in the office for twelve hours a day just to fit the corporate culture and climb corporate ladders,” he said.
“For them, it’s about working productively and flexibly to achieve KPIs and required outcomes. It is also vital that employers demonstrate leadership and provide the right kind of development and training to retain this new generation of worker.”
Working with Gen Y
Use multimode communications for meetings and decision-making, such as MMS, SMS, email and mobile phone.
Implement an outcomes-focused, project-based work environment rather than hourly-based work or clock watching "nine to five" culture.
Allow workers to set up multiple work locations or multiple office spaces.
Implement permission structures and workplace culture that allow workers to exercise work/life options and integrate work with other aspects of their lives.
Develop roles with fluid job descriptions and flatter work structures.
Offer flexibility in pay structures and working hours that reward hard work with increased salary, but also allow options for reducing salary and number of hours worked for study or family time;.
Facilitate greater 'personalisation' of working environments, ie social development, parenting time and personal development programs.
Provide a work environment that encourages ongoing skill development and offers options to use these skills.
Source: The Uncollared Workforce, ACS
