The Millennial Question

Introduction

• Millennials (born 1984 and after) face management challenges.
• Common accusations: entitled, narcissistic, self-interested, unfocused, lazy.
• Leaders often ask, "What do you want?"

Millennials’ Aspirations

• Desire for purpose and impact.
• Appreciate free food and relaxed work environments (bean bags).
• Despite amenities, many still unhappy due to missing elements.

Four Key Characteristics Impacting Millennials

1. Parenting

   • Many faced failed parenting strategies.
   • Constantly told they were special and could have anything they wanted.
   • Participation awards and grades often not earned.
   • Results in lower self-esteem upon entering the workforce.

2. Technology

   • Social media creates addiction through dopamine release.
   • Instant gratification from technology contributes to superficial relationships.
   • Young people struggle with forming deep connections due to social media reliance.
   • Increased rates of depression linked to social media usage.

3. Impatience

   • Grew up in a world of instant gratification (e.g., Amazon, streaming services).
   • Difficulty understanding that job satisfaction and relationships take time to develop.
   • Many young professionals feel the need to quit jobs quickly due to lack of immediate impact.

4. Environment

   • Corporate environments prioritize numbers over personal development.
   • Lack of support for building confidence and social skills.
   • Corporations are not addressing the root issues that affect millennials.

Consequences

• Lower self-esteem and coping mechanisms lead to struggles in personal and professional life.
• Signs of crisis: increased suicide rates, accidental deaths, school dropouts due to depression.
• Best-case scenario: a generation moving through life without finding deep fulfillment.

Solutions and Recommendations

• Corporations must take responsibility for developing young talent.
• Eliminate cell phones in meetings to promote engagement and relationship building.
• Encourage personal interactions in workplace settings to foster trust and cooperation.
• Create environments that prioritize long-term human development over short-term gains.
• Propose practical changes:
  • Charge phones outside the bedroom to minimize distractions.
  • Promote face-to-face conversations over digital interactions.

Conclusion

• Millennials were dealt a tough hand and are not solely to blame for their struggles.
• It is crucial for corporations to adjust their practices to better support this generation.