Social Networking Makes Gen Y More Productive

Social Networking is a touchy subject among many employers these days. Many older managers feel that Social Networking software can do no good, and simply leads to a less productive work force. For this reason, I imagine that many of you work in offices (I know I did all summer) where social networking tools have been banned.

But is social networking really such a negative influence on our productivity? A recent story in the San Francisco Chronicle discusses not only the positive impacts that social networking can have on productivity, but its necessary place in an office full of Gen Y workers who demand constant connectivity.

The article makes 2 great points:

1. Gen Y is more comfortable using social media instead of traditional communication channels  

2. Encouraging social networking usage in the work place is a great way to attract top quality talent to your organization. Gen-Y wants to work for “cool” companies, and promoting social networking use is a great way to improve your corporate image.     

By encouraging social networking use in the office, you kill two birds with one stone. You improve your young employees’ productivity while making them happier. Seems like a good idea to me.