Every generation likes to complain about the younger generation — The one they spoiled, by the way. The fad of the times is for Baby Boomers (born between 1944 and 1964) to complain about Millennials (born roughly between 1980-2000). For reference, Generation X makes up the group in the middle.
The first generation to not know a world without the Internet, Millennials are cast as a restless lot who are self-absorbed, disinterested, acutely unable to accept criticism and disloyal to all.
It seems to me that some of the disdain for Millennials stems from the previous generations, who are entering retirement. There is some building resentment coming from the older generations because they aren’t satisfied with leaving their inheritances to a generation who wants to do things their way. (No shit! Didn’t you want to do things your own way when you were a young adult?) The ironic thing is, every generation in the history of the world has felt this way.
Millennials Want What All Professionals Want
The Brookings Institution has reported that in the U.S., Millennials could make up 75% of the workforce by 2025, which is less than six years from now.
Instead of assuming we know who Millennials are and what they want, why don’t we take a look at the data? Here are a few statistics I was able to dig up from various studies and surveys:
- 90% of Millennials want to grow their careers with their current companies.
- Only 25% of Millennials have worked for five or more employers, dating back to their high school days.
- 64% of Millennials say benefits are extremely important to employer loyalty.
- 56% of Millennials believe that an individual should stay at a single company for more than 20 years.
- Offering career training and development would keep 86% of Millennials from leaving their current position.
One of the biggest differences between Millennials and previous generations is that Millennials value a work/life/family balance more than their predecessors. Ironically, the in-between Generation X values it more than Boomers, but less than Millennials. It’s a trend that has been happening for decades.
To this, I say, “Fantastic!”
The best employers value their employee’s personal lives and understand that a healthy personal/family life leads to better, happier and more loyal employees. This isn’t disengagement from work. It’s just a different kind of engagement toward life.
Millennials are the future of our companies.
My experience with Millennials
On a personal level, I love working with Millennials. I have fun and learn more from them than I do with other generations in the workplace.
Millennials are curious, not afraid of technology or change, bring fresh solutions to the table and speak their minds. Those who are quick to dismiss them for lack of “experience” are missing out on some truly amazing traits.
I also appreciate that they prefer to avoid office politics and drama whenever possible. I have found they usually work hard and are hungry to learn and grow. They seem more open to mentors than previous generations, too.
It’s ironic that previous generations (Baby Boomers and Gen X’ers) have issues with Millennials and their values (think valuing family time over work), since it was these two generations (me included) who raised the Millennials. Hey, we must have done something right if our offspring want to be with their family.
My most rewarding work experiences as of late are with Millennials. If you are leading an organization that’s still clinging to stereotypes, you are missing out on a truly remarkable generation. Let’s talk. I can help. My firm, Whole Leadership Systems, offers a simple three-step executive coaching process that will turn your outdated culture around. It starts with YOU! Contact me to schedule a complimentary consultation at http://maricarmenpizarro.com/contact-mari-carmen/
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