Gen Y Workers Report Low Job Satisfaction Levels

Sept. 17, 2008
According to the Center for Management Communication at University of Southern California’s (USC) Marshall School of Business, Gen Y workers are less likely to be satisfied with their jobs, a problem that can a negative impact on the economy. Across all major fields and industries, job satisfaction levels for new Gen Y professionals are plummeting. A 2007 study by the Conference Board found that job satisfaction for workers under the age of 25 are at record lows, with fewer than 4 out of 10 reporting that they are satisfied with their current jobs.

According to the Center for Management Communication at University of Southern California’s (USC) Marshall School of Business, Gen Y workers are less likely to be satisfied with their jobs, a problem that can a negative impact on the economy.
Across all major fields and industries, job satisfaction levels for new Gen Y professionals are plummeting. A 2007 study by the Conference Board found that job satisfaction for workers under the age of 25 are at record lows, with fewer than 4 out of 10 reporting that they are satisfied with their current jobs.

According to Marshall faculty member Kirk Snyder, who has just completed a 3-year research project focusing on communication and connection in the workplace, “the economic toll associated with these increasingly lower levels of job satisfaction among Gen Y is significant, immeasurable and preventable.”

Studies by the Society for Human Resources Management are consistent with Snyder’s findings and reveal that lower levels of job satisfaction go hand-in-hand with decreased employee commitment, productivity and retention. These are three organizational conditions that companies in today’s tightening economy simply cannot afford.

Communication
USC therefore is working to develop communication solutions that can play a fundamental role in bridging the growing disparities between Gen Y workers and their older managers and corporate leaders.

To help create proactive solutions, USC will hold a conference on Sept. 26 to bring together 60 undergraduate Marshall business students with organizational leaders across Southern California. This first-ever event will focus on how to increase generational communication in three areas that greatly impact job satisfaction: relationship-building, employee engagement and employee productivity.

“Our hope is that through conferences like this one, we can maximize the potential of this newest generation of young professionals,” Snyder said.

Sponsored Recommendations

Ensuring a Safer Workplace through a Comprehensive Contractor Qualification Framework

March 13, 2025
Avetta is a leader in contractor management, and with over 15 years of industry experience, we can help you establish a robust contractor pre-qualification program that aligns...

EQT Private Equity to Acquire Avetta from WCAS

March 13, 2025
EQT commits to supporting Avetta in its ongoing growth and innovation journey.

Guide to OSHA Workplace Lighting Requirements

March 13, 2025
Learn OSHA workplace lighting requirements to enhance safety, productivity, and quality. Discover standards, compliance benefits, and risks of non-compliance.

What is the difference between Tier 1, 2, and 3 suppliers and why do they matter?

March 13, 2025
From raw materials to final products, each supplier tier poses risks and liabilities that can impact your organization. Avetta's supply chain management software offers peace ...

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of EHS Today, create an account today!