Surveys reveal just how different they are as a group. In a recentTimearticle,Dan Schawbeldid a great job in summarizing the research. Heres a quick summary
Millennials want on-going feedback and coaching not just an annual performance review.
Millennials want casual Friday everyday or whenever they chose. They dont get the dress up for work idea (neither do I.)
Millennials think they should be able to create their own schedule.Working 9 5 is an artifact of previous generations.
Millennials arent all about the money.This is not a surprise. Studies of this generation have revealed from the time they were kids they wanted to change the world. The cause matters to them shouldnt it matter to all of us?
Milennials like transparency at work.They want to be part of a community they understand its power. Check out my previous post oncommunity.
Millennials see the work place as flat.Schawbel introduces an idea that summarizes the view of many Millennials the ideocracy. A place where the best idea wins regardless of your title or tenure. I like that too.
So whats the lesson here for boomers? There are probably several. For me, the biggest takeaway is that we need to avoid the assumption that what worked yesterday will work tomorrow. When Toynbee did his study of the rise and fall of 14 different civilizations, one of his findings: the fall was always preceded by leaders who tried to apply yesterdays answers to todays questions. Lets not repeat the lessons of history.
As todays leaders, we can lead Millenials well if were willing to listen more, be open to new ideas andlead differently!