Working with the New Generation
May 3-7 has been declared Youth Employment Week in BC, so we thought we would revisit a paradigm about young workers that just wont go away. 
We’ve heard many comments about the “culture of entitlement”, but we wanted to question the level of truth to this popular opinion.
Is it possible that young people view their work differently than those in the Baby Boomer Generation?
Studies show that millennial workers are looking for more from their employment than just the pay cheque.
- The millennial worker is looking for meaning, opportunity for development, and guidance from those who have gone before them.
- From a BOSS a millennial is looking for help navigating their career path through coaching and mentoring,
- From the COMPANY a millennial is looking for integrity, flexibility, and a respect for worklife balance,
- A millennial wants to learn: technical skills needed in their field, how to be a leader, and industry knowledge.
The challenge for those of us from another generation who are tasked with managing these workers, is changing ourselves and the way we manage.
We have an obligation to the next generation to help them be the best that they can be on the job.
A good employer will establish mentorship programs for these workers, and will provide useful feedback and opportunities to learn and improve.
It is the responsibility of the prior generation to ensure the next generation is ready to carry the torch.
This doesn’t mean “trial by fire” as was the disciplinary style of the prior generations.
This means, understanding the workforce, its new motivations and adapting and leaning into their strengths and their development.
This requires work on the part of the prior generation who are likely the CEO’s, the top Executives and the Supervisors. Be better and do the work that is needed, everyone will be rewarded with dedicated, capable, and creative workers
Remember when you are old and vulnerable, this generation is moving the world. Set them up right.
This requires us allowing them to change the workplace as well.
Read more from Gallup and INC.