As a Millennial, you’ve probably heard about all of the stereotypes of your generation: narcissistic, entitled, job hopper, no work ethic, and more.
In a recent blog post we outlined what employers should consider when hiring a millennial based off of actual facts about the generation, instead of stereotypes.
Rather than fighting the stereotypes, you can work around the reputation by understanding how your generation is perceived by other generations based on actual data. Here are some findings from the Aspen Institute and 15 Economic Facts About Millennials via WhiteHouse.gov to help you navigate others perceptions.
46% of millennials surveyed said money was crucial to attaining the American Dream, according to the Aspen Institute.
Many of these millennials have acted on their desires to obtain the American dream and do consider money crucial. Knowing this, consider other job seekers and employees in your age bracket may be more willing to negotiate pay and raises, however, you can stand out by providing an employer specific reasons and proof for your desired salary based on your achievements, experience, and potential. Showing proof is one way to avoid that stereotype that Millennials are entitled.
25% of Millennials believe that your relationship to technology is what makes your generation unique, according to WhiteHouse.gov.
Not only has technology shaped your generation—you’re knowledgeable and innovative when it comes to utilizing technology to do great things. When working in a new environment, understand that many generations do not hold technology in such a high regard.
If the technologies or processes you’re faced with in the workplace could use improvements, be sensitive to those who may have implemented them in the first place. When approaching a coworker—speak in terms of innovation—not much needed change.
Millennials want community, family, and creativity in their work.
This probably isn’t news to you—your friends, family, and ability to be creative are very important in your day-to-day life. It’s very likely that if you’re in a great place with your career, you care about your workplace, are engaged, and want to make a positive impact.
These are all terrific attributes for a generation. With that sense of work, community and family though comes accountability for being present in all areas. When possible, show employers and hiring managers you can balance life and work. A few ways to achieve that work/life balance:
•Plan time off accordingly and as far in advance as possible
•Use personal days when needed to avoid burnout but avoid abusing time off
•Be honest with hiring managers and employers about possible scheduling conflicts early on
Working Millennials are staying with their early-career employers longer.
Although data shows that Millennials are staying in their first careers a lot longer than earlier generations, many older generations still believe that workers 18-34 bounce around from position to position. The best way to combat this?
Be honest with your current or potential employer about your intentions for length of employment. If you’ve found a company you’d love to stay at for years to come, it can’t hurt to let the hiring manager know you have plans to stick around.
Having an understanding of what other generations perceive and expect of your generation can be beneficial to your workplace success. If you have any questions about job seeking, contact us today!