Millennial Generation Misunderstood in the Office June 18, 2008 JWT survey shows positive side of younger workers
By Jeanie Casison
While older employees often call out their 21- to 29-year-old Millennial colleagues for not showing respect, lacking a strong work ethic and being impatient on the job, new research by New York-based ad agency JWT reveal that these negative perceptions may be off the mark.
According to the U.S. study, "Millennials at Work: Myths vs. Reality," the younger generation is more serious than people think. When asked about the statement "I think a formal appearance at the workplace is important for career success," 67 percent of Millennial respondents agreed compared to 65 percent of respondents in their thirties, 54 percent of forty-somethings and 56 percent of the 50-plus set. Additionally more than half of Millennials (56 percent) agreed that having a job is a privilege, not a right. On a positive note, the study did reveal that older workers recognized their Millennial co-workers for being tech-savvy and flexible.
As to how managers and colleagues can better connect with the Millennial generation, Ann Mack, director of trendspotting for JWT offers some sound advice. "Millennials are outspoken to their detriment, buy you can pick up on their nuggets of knowledge and genius," she says. "Quite frequently they have brilliant ideas that are glossed over by managers who are rolling their eyes. However, if you tap into their opinions at the right time, the innovation will follow."
So what makes an ideal job for the Millennial set? The JWT survey reveals competitive salary, a flexible schedule and the opportunity to learn new skills as the top priorities for these go-getters.
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