It is obvious that each generation has its strengths and flaws, yet millennials have gotten much more backlash than other generations, as many of them spend free time using technology, do not have to work as hard as past generations, and seem to have an entitled-attitude. However, leaders, and others, often focus on millennials’ flaws and forget to see their strengths. A good leader, especially one dealing with a generation that he or she is not a part of, should focus on the followers’ strengths in order to find ways to use them to better the group and to motivate the followers.
One of the millennials’ key strengths is their ability to use technology and to multitask while doing so. Whilst many consider their technology-usage a weakness, a good leader can use it to their advantage. Millennials can work on a multitude of technology-related projects at a faster rate than previous generations, thus making them perfect for any work needing to be done on a computer. With such an ability, millennials can also be helpful with planning conference calls. Growing up with technology has also made them great multitaskers, thus allowing them to take on multiple projects or simply one project that requires multiple tasks to be done.
With technology often comes instant gratification, so millennials are used to being rewarded or encouraged right away, which can be problematic, as they can lose motivation if they do not feel gratification from their work. In order to make sure that millennials are motivated and happy in the work place, a good leader should reward them for positive work, even if it is simply by telling them that they are doing well. Giving millennials smaller, different tasks where one can see the work being accomplished over time would also greatly benefit the workplace, as millennials will feel more gratification after each task and thus continue to work hard. Having a multitude of small tasks will also allow for any employee or follower, no matter the generation, to be kept on their toes and to not fall into a boring routine.
Making a change in the world, especially when it comes to saving our planet, is deemed as very important to millennials, so I believe that showing them how their work can positively impact the Earth, alongside others, would make millennials happier and more likely to stay within the company. Even if as an entry-level position employee or follower, there is little impact they can make, a good leader or employer should show them the impacts they will be able to make later on as they advance within the company and show them that who they are supporting and working for follows the same set of values that they do. As millennials want to leave a positive impact on others and on the planet, it is important that leaders give reminders of how their work, whether it be the team’s work or the individual’s work, is helping the community and will leave a lasting impact.
Although millennials are often given a bad reputation and are seen as hard to lead, all it takes to lead them is for the leader to listen to their needs and to what they want. By implementing a few, small changes, such as positive reinforcement and talking of the positive impact of the group, a leader can easily lead and motive millennials.