Bentley University’s Millennial Preparedness research study raised a number of issues about millennials in the workplace. The PreparedU Project, in this series entitled “Generational Voices,” features opinions from millennials and non-millennials alike on a wide variety of these issues. These views may contrast or coincide, but each will provide perspective designed to enhance insights resulting from the PreparedU data.
The Millennial Point of View
Buddy Gormley, Account Executive, Epsilon; Bentley University ’13
I think that millennials bring a fresh perspective to the workplace. We were brought up to think outside the box, to always question the status quo, and to not be content with simply repeating the past. We are always looking for new and improved processes, and to provide insights, that will help get work done more efficiently and effectively.
Millennials are also very tech-savvy. We are the first generation to have grown up with computers and the Internet, so we never experienced technology turning our world upside down — we jumped right into it. I think technological know-how is pretty engrained in us, so we are never intimidated by new systems in the digital age. That’s a big plus.
Finally, millennials bring to the workplace a pretty consistent focus on making a real difference in the world. Whether it’s on a small scale, with day-to-day work, or a large scale, with trying to change the world, we always show up at our jobs with the attitude that we can have a positive impact on the things around us. This optimism, or idealism, is a definite benefit. We are a very determined generation.
The Baby Boomer Point of View
Lee Schoentrup, Director of Communications, Infectious Disease Research Institute (IDRI); Instructor, University of Washington
The millennial generation often gets a bad rap when it comes to the workplace because the perception is that it’s not focusing on what it can give, but, instead, on what it can get.
My experience has been just the opposite, and I feel that this group enters the workforce better prepared than previous generations.
They are highly educated, and often come with experience from internships or volunteer positions. Many have the advantage of coming from a family with both parents in the workforce, which provides them with valuable insight, particularly when it’s related to navigating office politics and dealing with work-life balance.
As a baby boomer, I entered the workforce when the mantra was “Work hard and keep your mouth shut,” especially for women. Now, I find the millennials bringing a fresh perspective — asking questions, making suggestions, looking for more ways to contribute — all the while bringing the savvy that comes from their extensive exposure to today’s vast array of technology.
The connectedness that comes from this group is an asset; for example, the millennials understand the value of using social media in the workplace, not just to push messages but, more important, to start conversations and gather valuable feedback.
And millennials are improving communication within the workplace as well, asking for transparency and seeking feedback.
In this case, actions speak louder than words. The millennials’ ability to contribute in new and different ways in the workforce far overshadows the bad rap the generation is often tagged with.