Snowflakes, fragile, entitled, narcissistic…the youngest members of our workforce, the Millennials, sure have a bad rap. They are becoming big drivers in the economy, and a larger percentage of the workforce every year. Does that excite or frighten you? I have raised three Millennials, and employed several over the past few years. I am still learning, but feel ready and compelled to share BIG IDEAS I believe will help you unlock their full potential (and yours).
BIG IDEA #1: For Millennials, WHY comes first
Most Millennials care more about doing important, transformational work, than getting a big paycheck. They might even ask you, their leader, a few questions like these:
- Why did you start your business?
- What difference are we making in the world through our work?
- Where are we going this year?
- What is my role, and how am I contributing to the world?
Many businesses don’t have clear and compelling purpose statements or meaningful, well-defined visions. If you don’t have answers to these questions, your Millennial employees will go elsewhere. In response, some might say ‘they don’t have a good work ethic.’ But if you asked the Millennials, they will tell you, I am looking for a better leader with a bigger vision.
It’s not me, it’s you.
Unsure how to write your purpose statement or vision? Check out this free 2-page worksheet to help you get started.
Next week, Big Idea #2: Give Millennials the Hard Stuff