Young professional (YP) groups have been emerging in cities across the country at an increasing rate during the past two decades. These groups meet a social need for those who participate, anchoring people to their community by providing a sense of belonging. They also fulfill a greater purpose for the communities in which they exist and prove invaluable to community development. Communities that recognize the economic benefits of an engaged young professional population will ultimately be more successful in the long run.
The Economics
In her book “Live First, Work Second,” futurist and founder of Next Generation Consulting Rebecca Ryan writes about an economic model that focuses on improving communities in order to attract young talent rather than jobs. She explains, “Cities are for people. Not cars. Not interstates. Not parking lots…the next generation sees and values cities differently than previous generations did. To attract and retain the next generation of knowledge workers to your community, you must see your city through their eyes.”
Previous economic development strategies focused on making cities attractive to businesses by providing incentives and infrastructure. This, she argues, is an outdated strategy—instead, cities should focus on making themselves attractive to talent, and the companies that want that talent will follow. So how do communities make themselves more appealing?
One way is by encouraging the development of unique third spaces and stroll districts. Third spaces are places that aren’t home or work, where people spend their free time. Stroll districts are people-friendly areas with a high concentration of third spaces. YPs value diverse entertainment, dining and recreational options, so communities that encourage the creation of these spots will be more likely to have young talent relocate or stay.
Another effective tactic for cities is fostering an inclusive environment. Diversity and low barriers to entry, or the ability to make a difference without having to cut through a lot of red tape or break through an established power structure, are important to YPs. Communities that are unwelcoming of outsiders or that do not offer opportunities for new people to get involved will run off talent, and as a result, opportunities for growth.
Young Professionals Organizations
Perhaps one of the most effective ways to attract young talent is to engage them. YPs want to be involved in the community, but they think and see the world differently than previous generations. Traditional service organizations often do not appeal to YPs, so new organizations are emerging specifically to cater to this demographic. YPs want to be involved, but they don’t join groups just to be on a membership roster. They want to be part of a group that aligns with their beliefs, and that allows them to feel they are making a difference. Effective YP groups focus their programming on issues that are important to their members, such as career development, volunteer opportunities and networking.
Often, these groups are started by chambers of commerce that recognize the importance of an engaged young workforce. They understand that traditional chamber programs may not appeal to this demographic. Many YPs are just beginning their careers, so their needs and priorities are different from established businesses leaders. YP groups allow members to enjoy and learn from their peers while also connecting them to members of the business community they may not otherwise have access to.
Chambers are uniquely suited to this task, offering access to key information and individuals. These groups also enjoy the credibility of an established, well-respected organization and an experienced staff.
Chambers, in turn, benefit from an increase in active, qualified leaders who can potentially serve on their boards and committees.
Greater Killeen Young Professionals
In our own community, the Greater Killeen Young Professionals (GKYP) offers area residents a myriad of opportunities to meet others and make a positive, lasting impact. The group is composed primarily of 20 to 40 somethings but welcomes anyone who is young at heart with a passion for community and individual development.
President Ashley Whitworth explains, “The GKYP strives to make Killeen a place where young professionals want to live, work and play. I think the organization does a great job of bringing area young professionals together to highlight what a vibrant community we live in. As a leader in this organization, I take great pride in putting together programs that benefit our members and our community, such as our annual scholarship fundraiser Rock the Foundation Casino Night. We couldn’t hold this event without the support of our community, both businesses and individuals.”
GKYP was formed in 2008 to give young professionals access to events and programs that would allow them to grow professionally and help grow the community. Currently, GKYP offers its members monthly and quarterly opportunities for networking, professional development, and community service. GKYP has made its presence known in the community through its premier annual event Rock the Foundation, a fundraiser that has helped raise more than $90,000 for scholarships since 2010. In 2016 alone, the group donated more than $16,000 to Central Texas College and Texas A&M University-Central Texas.
The organization has had a lasting impact on its members and the local community. Recently elected At-Large City Council Member Gregory Johnson states, “The Greater Killeen Young Professionals are key to mentoring, preparing, and equipping emerging leaders with the tools and resources they need to lead Killeen into its future. I have benefited both personally and professionally from this organization through its many professional development and network building opportunities.”
Young Professionals organizations like this are flourishing nationwide, and the communities that host them are better for it. Intentional community development that includes a strategy making their community appealing to young professionals and engaging them will go a long way in recruiting and retaining talent.
For more information about the Greater Killeen Young Professionals, visit gkyp.org or email info@gkyp.org.
Written by Jennifer Hetzel, Director of Strategic Communications, Greater Killeen Chamber of Commerce
Published in the Greater Killeen Business Quarterly 2016 Newcomer’s Guide