There have been some big changes to the U.S. workplace over the past decade, and it’s not just the technology that’s been changing. The millennial generation, who in 2016 became the largest generation in the workforce, do things a little differently.
It’s true that differing attitudes towards office arrangements and technology can lead to cross-cultural static for those unaccustomed to the millennial mindset. But one big takeaway from CompTIA’s recent research report, Research On Managing a Multigenerational Workforce, is that it doesn’t have to be that way.
Managing millennials effectively can lead to unparalleled productivity – and understanding how millennials work best might not require a giant leap. The following facts CompTIA has uncovered about millennials demonstrate that this generation of “digital nomads,” unique as they are, have more in common with the Generation Xers and baby boomers they work with than you may expect.
Millennials Think About the Office Differently
A decade ago, work-from-home was generally a privilege reserved for upper management. An appearance in the office was obligatory, even the only thing being accomplished was a game of Minesweeper. This is one of the biggest changes with managing millennials. If a task can be handled remotely, they’ll ask: Why not?
That’s because millennials are far more comfortable with cloud-based tools outside of the perimeter of a company’s network. If there’s a tool out there that can help them get the job done when they’re working remotely, they’ll use it – and they’re much more likely to suggest it. This may challenge traditional beliefs about workplace hierarchies, but managers of millennials may be surprised at how receptiveness to such requests can drastically increase productivity.
Millennials Have Concerns About Automation
Millennial comfort with technology doesn’t necessarily mean that they see it as an unconditional positive. Millennials have been in the workplace long enough to see technological turnover and the human cost that can come with it. They’re also decades out from even entertaining retirement. So, it’s worth keeping in mind when managing millennials that 52 percent of them report being somewhat concerned about automation and the impact it might have on their jobs. Honesty and reassurance count.
Millennials Do Want Stability
Despite headlines portraying millennials as content to live by the seat of their pants, financial security is an important part of what they look for (65 percent place achieving financial security as their top career aspiration). While they may be more open to freelancing and other remote working relationships that cloud-based tools enable, this doesn’t mean they’re not looking for long-term, loyal working relationships.
Click here to download Research On Managing a Multigenerational Workforce.
Matthew Stern is a freelance writer based in Chicago who covers information technology, retail and various other topics and industries.
