Understanding Millennials

A Study of Similarities and Differences in Leading Generation X and YPresented by: Caryn Bursey

1ProblemBoth generations have similar and different characteristics and need specific leadership styles

One of the biggest reasons employees leave an organization is their supervisor (Gravett & Throckmorton, 2006)

Payroll is one of the biggest line items in HR & Corporate Budget

Corporations lose millions of dollars in recruitment and turnover costs.

Both generations have similar and difference characteristics that require a successful leader to understand these traits and provide specific leadership styles that are unique to each generation.

One of the biggest line item in the HR and corporation budget is payroll. But without employees, most corporations would not be able to stay in business so understanding the different characteristics of the generations is important to effectively lead these generations

Corporations lose millions of dollars in recruitment and turnover costs because employees do not feel engaged and leave. 2GENERATION DefinedGENERATION: Each Generation is a group of individuals born and living contemporaneously who have common knowledge and experience that affects their thoughts, attitudes, values, beliefs and behaviors (Johnson & Johnson, p.6., 2010)

3Generation X DefinedSimons (2010), defines Generation X as People born between 1964 and 1977 (p.30).

Also known as: Latch-key Kids, Sandwich Generation, Baby Busters and more.

Latch-key kids? It is estimated that 40% of children were given a key to there home to fend for themselves (Johnson & Johnson, 2010)

4Gen X HistoryIn the 70s, 50% of these marriages ended in divorce, this meant that roughly half of all Gen Xers witnessed the dissolution of their families (2010, p.64.)

Gen X has the smallest birth rate (Simon, 2010, Mcalister, 2009).

Born from parents from Silent and Baby Boomers, according to Johnson and Johnson In the 70s, 50% of these marriages ended in divorce, this meant that roughly half of all Gen Xers witnessed the dissolution of their families (2010, p.64.)

With the beginning of the pill and women becoming more empowered, having children became unhip Gen X has the smallest birth rate.5Things That Defined Generation X

This generation grew up scared and untrusting as a result of such events such as Watergate, Iran Contra Iran Contra, the threat of Nuclear warfare, bomb scares, Castro, and even AIDS (p. 98) They learned that politics never solved anything and usually made things worse, therefore they are untrusting of anyone or anything as cited in (Gravett & Thrickmorton, 2007, p 110). Conversely, their outlook in the workplace can reflect a sometimes, pessimistic or unrealistic demeanor.

6Generation X CharacteristicsThey are self sufficient, pliable and flexible.Xers have learned to do things for themselves and handle problems on their own.Dislike authority and rigid work requirementsI don't need someone looking over my shoulderWork well in multicultural settingsPractical approach to getting things doneLive for today mentality

7Generation X Values and Work EthicDiversityThinking globallyBalanceTechno-literacyFunInformalitySelf-reliancedifferently oriented toward work just a jobFlexible hours, informal work environment, just the right amount of supervisionMulti-taskingGive them lots to do and freedom to do it their way

8What makes them tick?They tend to avoid corporate politics they have no orientation for this They are generally not very interested in traditional perks

They are usually motivated by the prospect of independence, the lack of corporate structure, a lack of rigidity, and the latest technological advances

Unlike their Brethren, Gen Y; they do not synthesize with technology.Unlike their Brethren, Gen Y; they do not synthesize with technology who eat, sleep and breath technology.

9The Myths surrounding Gen XHigher Salary is more important than work balance.Gen Xers strive for a balance between work and life and are motivated by freedom to do things their way. Catalyst (2005) a long-time womens organization describes; Gen Xers have several reasons for wanting to use alternative work schedules. The top reason was to meet childcare responsibilities, followed by the ability to attend school, personal health and personal reasons unrelated to the family (p. 39).

Capko claims that Gen Xers strive for a balance between work and life and are motivated by freedom to do things their way (2010). Catalyst (2005) a long-time womens organization describes; Gen Xers have several reasons for wanting to use alternative work schedules. The top reason was to meet childcare responsibilities, followed by the ability to attend school, personal health and personal reasons unrelated to the family (p. 39).

10The Myths surrounding Gen XThey are arrogant

They are intensely self-confident and sometimes taken for arrogant, but rather children who have had to solve problems on their own. (Minerd, 2009)11The Myths surrounding Gen XTheyre not willing to work hard.In interviews, Gen Xers consistently tell us they are willing to work very hard. They dont want to be taken advantage of, though. Many believe its unfair to expect a seventy-hour week for forty hours of pay. And, as a generation, theyre committed to having a life beyond work.Adapted from Claire Raines, Beyond Generation X (Menlo Park, CA: Crisp Publications, 1997)This group believes that work for them is a shared mission to meet and exceed a companys goals and mission.12The Myths surrounding Gen XTheyre living on easy street.In the 1950s, young homeowners could make the monthly mortgage payment by using 14% of their income. Today it takes 40%. And today, folks older than sixty will get back about $200 for every $100 they put into Social Security. Gen Xers will lose more than $100 for every $450 they contribute.Adapted from Claire Raines, Beyond Generation X (Menlo Park, CA: Crisp Publications, 1997)13Generation X key characteristics they want in their leadersApproachableActively listens to their ideas, suggestions and needsIs supportive of the need for a life outside of workHas a high level of integrityProvides regular feedback beyond the annual reviewDoesnt micro-manage but lets them do their job and ask for help if necessary14Generation Y DefinedPeople born between 1978 and 1994 according to Mcalister (2009, p13) and Simon, (2010, p33).

Other names for this group are Generation Xs, Echo Boomers, Digital Generation, Nexters, Helicopter Kids, Baby-on-Board, etc.

Baby-on-Board?BABY ON BOARD!Generation X have been considered as sheltered. Their parents had a Baby on Board bumper sticker in their cars back window and every comfort and safety aid at their fingertips 15Gen Y HistoryBorn from Parents of young Baby Boomers and Generation X, from birth this generation has taken a place of priority in the world.

Parental Control, Tracking, Childrens Defense

RESULT: Lack of Consequences, Little Responsibility & No heavy lifting (Johnson & Johnson, 2010)Parental control can be found in car monitoring devices to their own Facebook accounts as a means of tracking their childs online activity. In addition, parents are quick to come to the their childs defense. Some parents have go so far as to shield their children from consequences of their actions. If Johnny hasnt done his homework, theyll do it for him. These parents often refuse to let their children learn that life requires some heavy lifting Then they wonder why their kids wont take responsibility for themselves. (Johnson & Johnson, 2010 p.105)With so much encouraging affirmation from mom and dad and other authority figures, this generation is very self-assured about their future. They believe their success will translate into triumph for the environment and civilization as whole 16Things That Defined Generation Y

With so much encouraging affirmation from mom and dad and other authority figures, this generation is very self-assured about their future. They believe their success will translate into triumph for the environment and civilization as whole.Their outlook on life Social analysts say that as a civic generation, Millenials are more inclined to light candles than curse the darkness. This generation says These institutions are broken, we fix them (Brownsteine, Baron, Clark, Freedman, Harder & Jerome 2010 p. 9).

17Generation Y CharacteristicsMake up 41% of the US population and most 50% of the full-time workplace Resenweits & Iyer, 2001, p.91)

Typically team-oriented, banding together to date and socialize rather than pairing off

They text, talk, listen to music but that doesnt mean they are retaining information McAlister, 2009, p.34)

Respond well to personal attentionMaking up 41% of the US population and most 50% of the full-time workplace Resenweits & Iyer, 2001, p.91)Typically team-oriented, banding together to date and socialize rather than pairing offThe Millennial, multi-tasker may text, talk, listen to music but that doesnt mean they are retaining information McAlister, 2009, p.34)Respond well to personal attention

18Gen Y - ExpectationsAccustomed to working away from their desks, using computers, smartphones, and laptops (Mcalister, 2009)

Are extremely conscious of the environment (Gravett & Throckmorton, 2007

Unlike Gen X predecessors who saw job hopping as the road to success, Gen Y more often wants to move in the confines of the company (Johnson & Johnson, 2010, p.71)

These cohorts are known as champion contortionist (Johnson & Johnson, 2010) when it comes to having a balanced life. They are not satisfied with the typical 9 to 5 structured, 4-wall compartment that feels restrictive and monotonous. Technology has given them the ability to work smarter not longer. With the invention of the smart phone, this group can multitask no other previous generation

Gravett & Throckmorton, (2007) explains that this generation, are extremely conscious of the environment. They worry about the future, not just locally, but globally and actively engage and encourage acts of recyclying and reducing waste or pollutants (p.98) Consequently Generation Y wants to do what right for Mother Earth and mankind which are important factors in choosing and staying with a company. (Johnson & Johnson)

19What Generation Y Learned from Video GamesIncreased problem-solving and decision-makingSpeed and a sense of urgency provide motivationVideo gamesProvide rapid feedbackAdjust the level of difficulty to the expertise of the playerAllow the player to explore situations and create unique scenarios

20So This is Why They Call it Generation Y

21Generation Y or aka: Digital Generation97% of Gen Y own a computer94% own a cell phone76% use instant messaging69% have a Facebook account44% read blogs34% use Web sites as their primary source of news.

According to Net.generation

22Generation Y Techie Behavior81% use email to keep in touch with friends and family78% believe the internet helps them with work70% use instant messaging to keep in touch56% prefer the internet over the telephone55% use email to arrange face-to-face meetings

According to Net.Generation

When technology does not measure up they get impatient and can lead to dissatisaction with the organization and cause for further attrition23Generation Y in the workplacePrefer group work and experiential activities

Expect structure in the workplace

Have a reliance on testing that focuses on facts and may result in less critical thinking skills

Expect organization and compelling engagement

Need the feeling of connection and feedback, and want it quickly24Differences between Gen Y & Gen XGeneration YGeneration XGetting Work DonePrefers working in TeamsPrefers working AloneIdentify as being SmartNot CoolWay CoolMost Entrepreneurial#2Now #1Concept of WorkplaceWork life Balance, ok with onsiteA seat in a coffee shop or airport.InteractionInteract with human directlyInteract by tweeting, texting, emails, etc.25What are effective leadership practices for Gen X?A leader has to demonstrate that their business has values and integrity. Xers need to understand your companys values, and how to support them on a daily basis through the mission and vision and activities of the business (Gravett & Throckmorton, 2007, p.89)Because of Gen X need for independence and desire not to be micro-managed, daily communication would not work well. Checking in from time to time would be a more effective method.Leaders should provide flexibility, freedom and a culture where learning is able.Encourage them to train for another job. Gen X workers know they will have many different jobs in their lifetime. They realize the old employment contract of previous generations no longer exists. They dont expect to stay with one company for their entire career. If you want to keep them, you will need to offer Gen X workers a variety of opportunities to develop different skills. 26What are effective leadership practices for Gen Y?This generation likes to be seen as smart, Leaders should communicate regularly stretch goals, educational opportunities and provide flexibility in their schedules.Leadership will need to show this group how to breakup sizeable projects into manageable pieces, plan their time, and meet deadlines effectively (Martin, 2010)Get Gen Ys engaged by demonstrating that what they do is important to the success of the organization, it will motivate them to do their best. Because their parents did everything for them, this group is not comfortable with confrontation and need to develop this skill. Leadership will need to plan professional activities for this generation including teambuilding, negotation and conflict-resolution skills (Gravett & Throckmorton, 2007, p.110)Keep this group focused with speed, customization and interactivity with regard to Technology.Work Environment: Prefers leadership to provide them with structure, support with personalized work and interactive relationshipsThis group needs daily feedback in a more formal process.27What are Effective Leadership Practices for Gen X and Gen Y?Would like companies to measure work ethic in terms of results they produce not in how they do it, where they do it, or when they do it (Gravett & Throckmorton, 2007)Provide lots of challenges but also provide the structure to back it upOffer lots of challenges but also provide the structure to back it upBe prepared for high demands and expectationsUse action words and challenge them at every opportunityDo not talk down to them they will resent itReceiving feedback and recognition for their performance is very important to them.Get them involved in operations in the business & demonstrate what their contributions can actually do to help the business turn out positive results

28Recommended Action PlanGain knowledge and understanding of characteristics of both generations.Use audits, group meetings or exercise to understand the gaps.Understand that these generations will not put up with the demanding socially isolating, personally draining environment of the past.Educate, implement and track suggested leadership best practices29Questions?30ResourcesBarone, C (N.D.) The new academy. Retrieved from http://www.educause.edu/Resources/EducatingtheNetGenerationBTW RU Plugged In? Engaging the Millennial Student http://class.ccaurora.edu/twt/CCA%20presentation%20Engaging%20Millennial%20students.pdfEngaging the four generations of workers: A leaders guide to baby boomers http://www.ddiworld.com/pdf/engagingthefourgenerationsofworkers_aleadersguidetobabyboomers_ar_ddi.pdf5 Ways to Sell to Baby Boomers http://www.thegenxfiles.com/tag/sellingFrand, Jason. (2000). The Information Age Mindset: Changes in Students and Implications for Higher Education. EDUCAUSE Review 35(5), 15-24.GENERATIONS Speaking their Language http://www.caccrao.org/docs/Presentation%20Generations%20Speaking%20Their%20Language.ppt Generational Learning Preferences: A Primer http://www.regislearning.com/htm/genlearning.html31ResourcesOblinger, D. (July/August 2003). Boomers, gen-xers, Generation X: Understanding the new students. EducauseOblinger, D. Oblinger, J. Is it age or IT: First steps toward understanding the net generation.http://www.educause.edu/IsItAgeorIT%3AFirstStepsTowardUnderstandingtheNetGeneration/6058Reach Students Online http://www.reachstudentsonline.org/know-your-market.htmlRoberts, G.R. (N.D.) Technology and learning expectations of the net generation. Retrieved from http://www.educause.eduThe Internet and Education: Findings of the Pew Internet and American Life Project http://www.pewinternet.org/reports/pdfs/PIP_Schools_Report.pdfThe Internet Goes to College: How Students are Living in the Future with Todays Technology http://www.pewInternet.org/reports/toc.asp?Report=71

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