A Millennial's Million $ Question...

Being a Millennial is an interesting thing these days as everyone seems to be talking about this clan! Companies are trying to pivot their culture to adapt with what Millennials like and dislike. Many writers are writing on who they are, what they want, how to deal with them, myths & realities associated with them and most importantly how different they are compared to rest of the generations. Being a Millennial, I would confess the attention does make me feel special but here is the million $ question.... "Am I really that different?"

As a leader of, Mentor to and friends with some very talented Millennials, here is what I have observed about this clan that I belong to.

This table will make you think if Millennials 'Crave For' the same exact things that all past generations craved for? Funny thing is that every past generation always had similar 'Perception' about the next generation and the 'Ways to address Actual Need' are not any different between generations. So, what’s so different with Millennials?

Key Differences that are 'Visible' should be cherished & encouraged -

·        Courage to speak up and take a stance when necessary.

·        Ambition Inclined more towards Winning vs. Surviving.

·        Self-Motivation to exceed, always.

·        Ability to figure out things with limited supervision.

·        Impatience for pretentiousness.

·        Curiosity to know more & desire to be involved.

·        Ability to think disruptively.

Key Differences that should be carefully handled -

·        Anxiety in absence of action makes it necessary to keep them challenged always.

·        Emphasis on Speed sometimes could impact quality of work making it necessary to coach them on striking the balance.

·        High self-confidence makes it necessary to ensure that they are brainstorming with people around and not just taking unilateral decisions.

·        Ready to Move on mentality makes it necessary to provide coaching on importance of putting time into something.

The list could go on further but essentially what you will realize is that every generation has been through something similar. Your behavior is not determined by the year you were born but by the phase of life you are in. To precisely put – the Millennials especially in their late 20’s early 30’s their basic behavioral traits could easily be linked to the age group they represent where they are still figuring out their own identity, gauging their caliber, their place in professional & personal life. Now think for a minute.......wasn’t it the same for any previous generation?.......Won’t it be the same for any upcoming generation?

The basic constructive need Millennials have is to understand that experience comes with time. In the world where you can ‘expedite’ almost everything, experience remains an exception. Similarly, the basic constructive need for most of the Non-Millennials, is not to become judgmental as everybody has been there; done that. When both sides start recognizing & working on their constructive need – the respect as well as admiration about the other side will enhance.  

As leaders, mentors, it is critical that we continue unlocking the true potential of Millennials. Like every other generation, they too are meant to do wonderful things....

Akshar Awalgaonkar