Gen X and Y are increasingly taking their work mobile, with 25 percent using their mobile phone to access work emails on the go, according to a new survey.
In a study of work communication, Fonality found in a recent survey that men have a greater preference for Instant Messaging (IM), whereas women prefer social media such as Facebook and Twitter for work communications.
25 percent of men versus 18 percent of women stated they would use IM for work. Women, however, had a greater tendency to use social media to stay in touch with colleagues, partners and customers (21% versus 16% of men).
The survey results also showed almost one quarter (22%) of Gen Y (18 – 24) and X (25 – 34) access work emails on their mobiles. Only 6% of 55-64 year olds do them same. On average, 15% Australians use their mobile phone for work email.
“The survey results demonstrate how office communications has evolved beyond traditional fixed line phone and email. There are clear generational and gender preferences businesses have to cater for if they want to maximise their workforce productivity,” said Marc Englaro, managing director of Fonality Australia.
The survey findings underlined the shift away from the traditional fixed line to a mobile-only generation. While 33% of 55-64 year olds were mostly likely to use their fixed lines for work-related phone calls from home, 18-34 year olds preferred their mobiles for this purpose (74%).
But even in the younger age bracket there were differences. Tech savvy Gen Y were the most avid users of Instant Messaging (IM) and video conferencing with 46% and 15% respectively. Gen X were most comfortable using social media such as Twitter, LinkedIn and Facebook for work with 23%.
“Small to medium sized businesses benefit from a cost-effective solution that allows employees to use communication channels such as email, mobile, VoIP, and instant messaging regardless of their location. While enabling greater work-life balance with support for telecommuters and remote workers, UC will help businesses compete more effectively and professionally,” Englaro added.
“With many young Australians going mobile only, support for smartphones also presents a way to attract and retain talent in today’s competitive labour market.”