Breaking The Top 7 Millennial Stereotypes
YEC (Young Entrepreneur Council) surveyed some folks about the truth behind Millennial stereotypes. Here are 7 responses to help us better understand Gen Y.
Q: Which stereotypes about Millennials can help others better understand the generation?
1. Their Work Shows How They Feel
Millennials have a lot of stereotypes, but one in particular shows their deeper side. Work for Millennials means not just money but a chance to do good in the world, which older generations see as idealistic. However, it really shows that they have a positive outlook and think they can change the world, which they can. So look a little deeper — it’s a generation full of good ideas and heart. – Kyle Clayton, Better Creative
2. They Want to Create Their Own Life
Millenials don’t want to fit into a predefined position. They want to feel like they’re making a difference and going along their own path. This is a great trait if you know how to harness it. Give them special projects or encourage them to take ownership over particular tasks. They’ll likely approach them with 110 percent effort. – Andy Karuza, Brandbuddee
3. They NEED Feedback
My entire office is comprised of Millennials, and if any one stereotype about them is true, it is that they need constant feedback. They need to know that they’re doing a good job, but they are also very receptive to constructive criticism. Bottom line, if they’re doing any sort of job they need to know exactly how they’re doing. Every week we discuss wins and not-so-wins openly. – Maren Hogan, Red Branch Media
4. They Optimize for Meaning
While some may claim this makes Millennials “entitled,” the fact is that Millennials want to make a difference. Millennials don’t just want to be a cog in the corporate machine — they want to have an impact on their team, company and community. Have conversations to connect their work to the broader reach they are having, and help them identify opportunities for growth and even greater impact. – Jenny Blake, Jenny Blake
5. They’re Addicted to Technology
I read an article that described a girl who hated being off Instagram for more than 60 minutes because she felt obligated to “catch up.” Knowing minute details of their friends’ lives feels like a must instead of an option. Technology (especially Apple’s) is designed to be addictive. Empower Millennials outside of your marketing department to participate in your company’s social media communications. – Joshua Lee, StandOut Authority
6. They Are Idealists
Growing up in the Internet generation has given Millennials a feeling of power and agency, so giving them a voice can be a great way to find common ground between the generations. Employers can use this to their advantage by doing things like being flexible with office hours or vacation days, or allowing their employees to help contribute to management strategies or company culture. – Simon Casuto, eLearning Mind
7. They Don’t Have Experience
We live in a digital age where merely everything is at the touch of our fingertips. In the very beginning, I taught myself everything from filing taxes, accounting and payroll to incorporating a company, drafting an operating agreement and distributing equity for an employee options pool. Millennials are resourceful and can learn virtually anything today on the Internet. – George Bousis, Raise Marketplace Inc.
Young Entrepreneur Council
Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC) is an invite-only organization comprised of the world’s most promising young entrepreneurs. In partnership with Citi, YEC recently launched BusinessCollective (http://businesscollective.com), a free virtual mentorship program that helps millions of entrepreneurs start and grow businesses.