Think (+) Positive: Don’t Lose Those Bright Eyes or That Bushy Tail

As a generation of students just graduating, you have yet another reason to hold that head high (as if a diploma wasn’t enough). The career value that you cling to so tightly is one to be proud of: Impact.

According to the just released Net Impact Talent Report: What Workers Want in 2012, most of you want a job that means something; a job that adds value to this society. It is a life goal that you put more emphasis on than a prestigious career, having children, or being wealthy. You want to make your mark for the good of this world even if it means taking a pay cut.

The report looked at a national sample of 1,726 university students about to enter the workforce along with currently-employed four-year college graduates from three generations: Millenials, Gen X and Baby Boomers. The group was examined to determine life goals, job satisfaction and the prioritization of making an impact at work. And what they found about the generation of you soon-to-be workers was nothing short of impressive, because you plan on using your career to make a difference.

What the survey found:

  • The only thing more important than having a job that makes a social impact is Marriage and Financial Security.
  • Forty-five percent of student say they would take a pay cut to have a job that makes a difference

  • Fifty percent of students say it’s important to have an employer that prioritizes CSR, while only 38% of current workers care.
  • Women care more than men about a job that makes a difference: 30% of women say they would take a pay cut for an impact job, while 19% of men say the same thing. And 60% of employed women believe that working for a socially and environmentally conscious employer is important, compared to 38% of men.

Why it is good to care:

Employees report greater satisfaction by a 2:1 ratio when they say that they make an impact on the job. So, vet out employers who align with your core values and what you want to contribute to this world. For some of you it might be environmental sustainability, for others it’s women’s issues or education. This study proves the importance of staying true to your workplace non-negotiables for making this world a better place. Keep your commitment to your passion and never let those bright eyes dwindle.