What is the Facebook generation (a.k.a. Generation F)? This is the new generation of people who live, learn and laugh using social networking sites. Facebook is one of the more well known social networking communities where not only people, but companies, are connecting, sharing and exchanging knowledge all around the globe.

We, at Interactyx, are no exception and practice what we preach! We’ve stepped up our game on Facebook. Generation F has changed the learning industry significantly and we’d like to share our findings with our fellow workplace learning and performance professionals. Make sure to ‘Like‘ us on Facebook for continued social learning best practices.

The Generation F Personality

What does Facebook (and social networking in general) have to do with learning? Plenty! Let’s start with some general personality traits of Generation F:

• Likes working independently (telecommuting huge draw for this talent)
• Works in spurts to accomplish tasks instead of dedicated 8 hour day (flexible work day a must)
• Drawn to and can learn new technology easily
• Wants freedom of choice (prioritizing their own days, working on projects that ignite their passion)
• Collaborative and self-directed (let the team assemble and run relatively autonomously, see what shakes out, perfect candidates for social learning!)

Preparing for Generation F

How can a learning professional prepare for Generation F? Professional development is a big part of keeping these talented resources engaged and happy. Training and development has its work cut out for them. Giving them the tools and freedom to learn in a shared space with their peers takes on a crucial role in supporting their success. Here are some suggestions on how to prepare for Generation F in the learning arena:

• Beef up your self-paced and collaborative learning offerings (this generation will eat up online courses that are engaging and offer knowledge sharing with others)
• Virtual collaboration instead of classroom based training (they will like the convenience of taking training at their leisure with loads of interaction)
• Good variety of professional development (offer lots of topics in professional development, survey employees and give them what they want)
• Train management to engage Generation F (communicating with, motivating, and interacting with this generation is different than others. Give management what they need to be successful, like Skype, Facebook, social learning tools.)
• Collaborative learning is huge (Generation F learns as much from others as from a course. Give them the opportunity to share knowledge with each other in an online setting.)

We Need Generation F

It’s no surprise that many will ask “why must we do this?” Bottom line, Generation F will be in the talent pool in full force before we know it. It’s important to keep them satisfied, well-trained and have no thoughts of leaving the organization. Their knowledge and skills will go right out the door with them. Here’s a few facts to show what companies will be facing:

• The top 10 most in-demand jobs 2010 did not exist in 2004.
• Students in 2009 are preparing for jobs that don’t yet exist.
• According to the U.S. Department of Labor will have 10 to 14 jobs by the age of 38.
• 1 in 4 workers has been with their current employer for less than a year.
• 1 in 2 workers has been with their current employer for less than 5 years.
• 59% of the U.S. workforce is either ready to leave or “stuck” in a job. Only 14% of employees are completely engaged.

What does all this mean? Companies will be fighting more fiercely than ever for skilled talent. If investing in Generation F’s professional development and future keeps them, it’s a win-win for all!

A little about us….

Interactyx is the developer of the TOPYX, awarded Best Advance in Social Learning Technology by Brandon-Hall in 2010. TOPYX has integrated web conferencing and award winning collaboration tools into the traditional learning management system, bringing to market a flat-fee, unlimited-use model for this essential and exciting aspect of workforce-centric learning.

Learn more about social learning software, TOPYX!

Like this post? There’s more! Make sure to ‘Like’ us on Facebook.

Jeffrey A. Roth
Vice President, Marketing and Communications
Jeffrey.Roth@Interactyx.com

Interactyx Limited
www.interactyx.com