Leading millennials takes patience and may be a big challenge without the proper insight, systems and time. Millennials are also known as Generation Y. This group was born approximately between 1982-1999 so their ages today range from approximately 14-31. I’m in contact with many millennials and I enjoy hearing their perspectives on life and views of the world. Many of the millennials are like a piece of clay, open to being mentored and coached. Some are very intentional about how they select their friends, manage their money and spend their time. However, others are in the midst of climbing a ladder leaning against the wrong building or diving in a pool without water. There is a trend with millennials, they want an easy path to reach their goals faster. As leaders we will need to take a smoother and more deliberate approach when leading millennials that are in the fast lane. Let’s first recognize some of the elements and stereotypes that describe millennials.
- Millenials are open to change
- Millennials are confident
- Millenials want it all and they want it now
- Love technology
- Want to enjoy life (They don’t want to work 70 hours/week every week)
- Well educated
- They owe a bundle on student loans
- Some have “entitlement sickness“
- Some are so driven they will be great leaders
Since millennials are open for change, we have an opportunity to make a positive impact in their lives. However, we need to build trust, and building trust takes time. Patience is required for leading millennials because they tend to be over-confident; therefore , they will make many mistakes. Yes, and some of us messed up too! So we need to be accessible during their journey of “failing forward” (I’m still failing forward). We need to listen to them when they are pissed because the dice didn’t roll their way. We need to encourage, push and inspire them to live up to their full potential.
Some millennials are already in leadership positions. Many are doing well and some need help. Leading millennials is not for the short-tempered vet. Do you have the patience and the competence to raise the millennials to reach their full potential? How millennial are you? Think about it, one day a millennial may be your boss.
