UK firms must prepare for 'Real-Time' generation

Research from integrator Logicalis claims future workforce is more determined to keep work/life balance

UK firms are at risk of missing out on the next generation of workforce skills if they fail to offer future employees a proper work/life balance, according to research from integrator Logicalis.

The firm claims 80 per cent of 13-17-year olds – known as the ‘real time’ generation due to their constant use of technologies such as instant messaging and the internet – have already thought about their work/life balance. Eleven per cent of those questioned would seek alternative employment if asked to put work before family, and 75 per cent have stated an intention to work abroad at some point in their careers.

Tom Kelly, managing director of Logicalis UK said: "Gordon Brown recently re-emphasised the importance of realising the talents of all our people. But the UK's ability to maintain its position as a leading knowledge economy over the next 20 years will depend on how we act now."

Logicalis also suggested areas where government, educational institutions and UK businesses can focus to attract and retain the real-time generation; which include embracing new methods of collaborative and flexible working.