How Generation Y Perceives Social Networking Applications in Corporate Environments

Abstract

Organizations increasingly rely on corporate social networks and online communities to enhance socialization and knowledge sharing, collaboration, and value creation among coworkers. This chapter presents and analyzes results from a qualitative exploratory study conducted recently with a group of 24 graduate management students from a French business school. It contributes to a better understanding of how generation Y perceives the use of Social Networking (SN) applications inside businesses by drawing up a list of dos and don'ts. This study provides an ordered list of important adoption issues to consider when implementing and using CSN applications in businesses. It provides expectations and precautions for stakeholders to take into account for best use, compared to users (coworkers), managers, and the enterprise as a whole. A first list of guidelines, to favor the best adoption of these applications and to make their usage effective, is formulated.