[Republished blog assignment for my CMNS 380 class from Winter, 2012]
Millennial Generation Rule Breakers are the New Rule Makers
By: Tammy MacAdams CMNS 380, 2012
Perhaps you have heard of the Millennial Generation invading the office with their flip flops and their Flicker breaks? The millennial generation are rule breakers in the workplace, but will they soon be the next rule makers?
The teenagers and 20-something’s that make up the millennial generation are rapidly entering the workplace. According to SocialCast.com, “By the year 2015, the youngest millennials will be of working age, while the oldest will be entering the prime of their careers, and they currently comprise roughly 35% of the U.S. workforce, but by 2014, are projected to be 47%.” This generation is driven, tech-savvy, relationship-oriented, socially responsible, and they will change how we communicate and do business.
With their tattoos and body piercings the millennial generation have unique ways of self-expression that are not typical of orthodox Ivy Leaguers, but don’t let that fool you. An
article on U.S.A Today.com reports, “The most detailed study to date of the 18 to 29-year-old millennial generation finds this group probably will be the most educated in American history.” With education under their belts, they will be quick to gain experience and fill senior roles. As they take the lead, their desire for real-time information along with their ability to stay connected will result in increased efficiency and collaboration in the workplace. In addition, being wired and connected almost from birth, this generation understands how to manage social media. As more companies embrace social media, the millennials will be playing instrumental roles in taking it to the next level.
When millennials are calling the shots, there will be flexible work environments and shorter work days. Friends and family are important to this generation so staying at a cubicle for eight hours a day won’t work. Millineials understand that work must be done and deadlines need to be met, but you are more likely to find a millennial working on the annual report after hours at Starbucks, than at their desk on a Monday afternoon. Their unorthodox views of working when most are sleeping, or Skyping in instead of driving to meetings may be seen as being unproductive to some, but rest assured millennials will figure how to get as much done in five to six hours as most people do in eight.
With Baby boomers retiring en mass, you may notice an influx of new hire announcements in your inbox, and it is a good bet that many of them are from the millennial generation. It is clear the millennial generation’s loud voice is being heard by decision makers. They will soon gain the experience to move up the corporate ladder and change the workplace for the better.