#24 Big Ten Network
They say if you love what you do, you'll never work a day in your life. Gen Yers at the Big Ten Network illustrate the adage. Here, work seems to be less of a means to an end and more of an education, a resume bingo, and a 24/7 sporting event all rolled into one 21st century package--with perks.
"We have a culture that businesses want to have: a culture of collaboration and listening," says CEO Mark Silverman. "And that's about more than just free pizza and coffee--it's about creating an environment that improves business."
It's working. A joint venture between subsidiaries of the Big Ten Conference and Fox Cable Networks kicked off in 2007 has already proven itself to be a force in cable sports. Broadcasting 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, Big Ten Network is the first network in cable or satellite television history to reach 30 million subscribers within its first 30 days on air. Big Ten recognizes that employing Gen Y talent is key if they want to continue to reach this core audience.
"Gen Yer's are involved in every aspect of the business, from producing shows to marketing, selling, and technology," Silverman says. "They are crucial in reaching the marketplace." That feeling of importance is one of the many reasons Gen Yers at Big Ten love coming to work. Stimulating days and constant access to sports news is a bonus, too.
"Traveling around and getting to meet cool people is one of the most interesting aspects of working here," says producer Dan Lindberg. "Every athlete I talk to always has an interesting 'off the field' story. My job is sports, but it's also life. It's exhilarating. I don't know of any other employer who allows you to watch bowl games from the sidelines."
Aside from the day-to-day excitement the growing network offers--a surefire way to attract Gen Y talent--Big Ten Network provides this group with pitch-perfect incentives. Along with tuition reimbursement (up to $2,500 per semester), Big Ten offers financial and legal counseling, occasional cocktail hours, competitive benefits packages and even spa discounts.
At the end of the day, the most fulfilling aspect of a job is the work itself. According to maintenance engineer Scott Adametz, there's enough satisfaction to keep him at Big Ten Network for a long time. "I'm always being introduced to new, cutting-edge technology. I'm doing things every day that no one else gets to do. If what I implement works, great. If not, fine. Because I get to fix it."
