Concluding our series on the different generations at work, this week we will focus on Generation Y, otherwise known as Millennials. Born from 1982-2000, Millennials have gained notoriety based on their outspoken traits. With strong influences from their Boomer parents, Millennials are widely known for being both more demanding than previous generations and are also more focused on teamwork and collaboration.
Behaviors in the Workplace
Millennials expect a lot. This is probably due to the constant cheerleading they received from their Boomer parents growing up. They were told they were the best at what they do and encouraged to reach for the stars…which is great, but can often lead to a mismatch of expectations, especially when they take their first job out of school. The plus side is that Millennials have big ideas, and they’re not afraid to share them. Although this might ruffle some feathers, you should not underestimate the value they bring to a team.
Common Characteristics
The prevailing characteristic you hear about Gen Y is that they are more demanding than Gen Xers, Boomers or Traditionalists. This is, once again, a double-edged sword in the workplace. A highly educated generation (almost 80% of Gen Y has at least a Bachelor’s degree), Millennials expect a lot, and when they don’t get it they simply move on. In fact, according to a study called “Gen Y on the Job”, more than a quarter of Millennials say they should only be expected to stay in a job a year or less before looking for a new position.
How to Communicate
Millennials are team oriented, so include them in meetings and invite them to participate. You may need to give them some coaching on meeting etiquette, but their ideas certainly bring something fresh to the table. In daily communication, keep it brief and to the point. Examples go far with Millennials. A highly visual and technical generation, webinars teach them more than an hour-long discussion might. Millennials crave feedback; so give it to them, good and bad. Position yourself as their mentor and advocate, and they will receive it in the right spirit.
The bottom line: Millennials are tech-savvy, think on their toes and expect a lot. While they might garner eye rolls from their “entitled” views, the positives certainly outweigh the negatives when working with Generation Y. So, encourage, mentor and take their input seriously. Millennials are the largest workforce now, so it’s time to wise up and accept this generation rather than alienate them for their differences. After all, by 2030 75% of workers will be Millennials. They are the future!
Do you need help navigating communication styles in the workplace? Let us know.
By Blair Koch
