Millennials Loyalty to Self

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As Millennials continue to invade the corporate work arena, the cultural dynamics of the work place continues to change along with it. The values and expectations of employees are vastly different from the generation before. Ping Pong tables and snacks aren’t enough to encourage this younger generation into feeling a sense of “loyalty” to employers. Longevity with a company is no longer the goal. Millennials are more interested in growth possibilities, work resources/technology, and educational opportunities. In #BigIdeas2016 , one to note is the rise of “self-loyalty”.

The “instant gratification” mentality that is common in today’s culture bleed into the work place. Millennials want to know they have the opportunity to advance in a company. They are not keen on staying in their cubicle. Millennials commitment to employers is completely based upon their work environment and experience. Spending 10 years with a company is not glorified, but is completely opposite of the mindset this generation has. (1) The average amount of time Millennials spends at a job is about two years. This in many cases is the average “experience” time needed to move on to another company or elevated position. Interviews are a two-way street now. Both parties are seeking their own best interest, and interviewees are just as interested in learning if the company is a suitable match as the interviewer.

Millennials have a loyalty to self and are constantly seeking more engaging opportunities. Technology plays a huge factor in this. Expectations from employers are greater than the previous Baby Boomer generation. As technology continues to grow, and the access to a variety of in depth information becomes more readily available, employees fully expect their employers to keep up with the times. In many cases, a desktop computer isn’t “enough”. Millennials expect the latest and newest technology along with innovative software from employers to complete there job duties.

There is also a huge increase in the entrepreneur spirit. Many millennials decide to work for themselves. (2) There are over 53 million people doing freelance work in the United States. 80 percent of these individuals are doing this along with their current job, and have had serious thoughts about completely leaving their ‘9 to 5’. Almost every one of my collegiate peers are currently partaking in freelance work along with their full time jobs, and are considering starting their own business.

Another huge expectation is the opportunity for more education. Not in every case are employers seeking a chance to return to school, but would like the ability to gain further knowledge about their company and their field. There is a webinar or online tutorial for just about anything from coding to web design to graphic design, etc. available online. Employees want to feel encouraged to continue their education. It has become very evident that if you can not keep up with technology trends as an employee or an employer then there is a large chance in becoming obsolete. If you get left behind, it is ten times harder to catch up. This expectation in particular favors both parties, and should be a top priority.

The job market has completely changed. It has become more of a revolving door versus a community of clicks and clubs. Individuals priority and commitment to “self” is the number one goal. Millennials aren’t phased by a 401 K plan anymore. Their desires and definition of job stability have changed. People aren’t afraid to start over or move on from a company. It is vital that companies realize the shift in expectations. In 2016, employees will remain loyal only to themselves.

For more industry trends, and valuable information regarding advancing your business follow the Clockwise page. “Time keeping that moves your business forward.”

Allison, T., & MUGGLESTONE, K. (2015, January 20). The Future of Millennial Jobs. Retrieved December 21, 2015, fromhttp://younginvincibles.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/FUTURE-OF-MILLENNIAL-JOBS-1.20.2015.pdf
Matthews, B. (2014, September 9). Freelance Statistics 2015: The Freelance Economy in Numbers | Ben Matthews. Retrieved December 21, 2015, from http://benrmatthews.com/freelance-statistics-2015/