Last week we talked about the "Granny Effect," the phenomenon of Gen X'ers moving closer to their parents when Gen X'ers start their families. The "Granny Effect" attracts Gen X talent by capitalizing on the natural magnetism between grandparents and grandchildren. This week we're taking you behind the one-way mirror for a sneak peak into the focus groups we've been conducting among young talent.

Focus groups and interviews with young talent help us keep our thumb on the pulse of what the next generation of talent looks for in cool communities and hot jobs. Here are a few results from our most recent rounds:

Access and Walkability: Young talent want quick, easy access to the nearest metro. Once there, they want to park their car and walk to wherever they're going. How accessible is your community, by car, foot...bike?

Earning and Learning: Young talent expect Cool Communities to have both a breadth and depth of employment options, plus multiple outlets to plug into for continuing education, both formal and informal.

After Hours: Sure, young talent want restaurants...they want a variety of ethnic and experiential restaurants...with outdoor seating. They prefer areas where shopping, playing, dining, and people watching are co-located and authentic.

 

 

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