“Leading or collaborating with Millennials at work requires both empathy and wisdom.”

Dr. Tim Elmore

Interestingly, about a decade ago this was the generation everyone was complaining about and frustrated with.  Now that this generation is moving into both middle management and higher leadership roles or simply starting businesses, we have learned what this generation desires. 

               Let’s be honest for a minute.  The older generations tend to complain about the younger generations with one of the most common words used:  “entitled.”  If I just frustrated you or caused you to say “right on,” take a minute and reflect.  What was your generation like when you entered the workplace?  Similar.

               I would suggest on some level every generation entered the workplace with a sense of naïve entitlement.  Whether Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, or Gen Z individuals now entering into the workplace, we all have behaved entitled at times and hopefully have matured through it.  So let’s look at some ideas on how to lead millennials (born 1980 – 1994) who were once accused of being entitled.

Clarify the Why

               In his book A New Kind of Diversity Dr. Tim Elmore describes what Millennials have to contribute.  At the top of the list is confidence.  Confidence is a good thing, but with it may come a tendency to challenge leadership.  As a leader take the time to share why something is being done.  This not only provides context but also gives others an opportunity to learn how decisions are made.

               Whether a millennial or another generation, they may disagree.  Don’t get defensive.  Listen, engage in conversation, and see what you can learn from them.  At the end of the day as the leader the most important question is not who is right, but what is right.  Share the why, listen to objections, and decide what is best for the organization or situation.

Create Community

               This is a generation that has grown up with the rise of social networks which people in their generation created.  They are used to digital interconnectivity and are a very social generation in every sense.  As a leader create a culture that is a community for them.

               If a millennial believes in the cause they will stay engaged.  Add to a great purpose an environment where they feel cared for, valued, and connected and they will remain with you.  I don’t have time to go into how to create a community culture because you can achieve this multiple ways.  The simplest way is to build relationships that let them know you care about them more than just for what they do.

Celebrate Progress

               This is a generation that grew up with immediate feedback.  Let me illustrate.  Video games were in full force with this generation and they could get immediate feedback on how they performed.  This is the first generation to have quick answers to their questions via the internet or download their favorite song digitally.  These influences can create an impatience when results do not come quickly.

               As a leader, take the time to celebrate progress.  If the team is working on a long-term project, help them see and celebrate benchmark achievements along the way.  Just as a sports team that wants to win it all celebrates each victory, a leader can do the same along the way. 

               I have highlighted Millennials specifically with these three ideas, but they can benefit all generations.  As you look at these, which of these do you need to improve with your team?  Do you need a tool to help you create community in a fun and strategic way?  Check out The Maxwell Leadership Game and reach out to me if you want to discuss bringing it to your team.  Lead Well!

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Elmore, Tim.  Generation iY.

Elmore, Tim.  A New Kind of Diversity.

Twenge, Jean.  Generations.