Generation Y are the children of the baby boomers. They are the most technically savvy generation to date, and also have very different expectations for the workforce than their parents had. Here are five helpful tips for managing Gen Y that will assist with bridging the gaps.

Set Clear Expectations - It’s important to meet with your Gen Y employees and set expectations early on in the employment relationship.

Offer Flexibility - In a recent survey conducted by our company, over 58% of Gen Y rated flexibility as extremely important or very important to them. While we realize, it is not always possible to offer flexibility, you should attempt to where you can.

Leverage Their Strengths - Like all generations, Gen Y’s have many positive attributes that they bring to the workplace. To get the most from this generation, find ways to leverage their strengths. Provide them with projects and assignments where they can add value.

Show Them Respect - This sounds so basic but it’s not. Frequently, Gen Y’s complain about being treated as their “manager’s child” rather than their employee. They also feel they are chastised because they are viewed as having limited experience as compared to other employees.

Communicate - Never underestimate the power of communication. Gen Y relies heavily on technology to communicate. However, we have found through our survey data that, in the workplace 52% still prefer face to face communication with their bosses and peers.

Source: “Managing Generation Y,” The Recruiters Lounge. January 22, 2009.