According to the US Census Bureau, Millennials are over 80 million strong. Representing a quarter of the nation’s population, they are poised to have a dramatic impact on the business world over the next few years.
As companies and organizations begin to experience the influence of the millennial generation, there’s a lot of generalizing and complaining about this upcoming wave of change.
Like any new generation, there are differences in how Millennials interact with those around them, and what their expectations are in the workplace. What intuitive business leaders are noticing, however, is that there are tremendous benefits that members of this generation bring to the workforce. Their unique generational experiences and the skills they have gained can help them, and the organizations that hire them, excel.
Here are just a few of the benefits that you can find in the right millennial candidate:
They are more tech-savvy
Millennials are the first generation to have really grown up with technology. They took computer classes in school, they were the first to use social media, and they are leading the way with smartphone usage. They are the largest segment of smartphone owners, with 85 percent possessing such a device.
Technology itself is also beginning to have far-reaching implications for the business world. An estimated 67 percent of the buyer’s journey now takes place online, indicating the importance of meeting and communicating with customers through Internet-based platforms.
Millennials can be a valuable asset for companies looking to master these channels and create a stronger online presence. Many already have the insights needed to utilize the various social media platforms to engage with consumers. They can help you leverage the power of technology to improve your sales process and succeed growing your business.
They value career progression
Millennials also place a considerable amount of value on their ability to grow within their careers. More than half say that they find career opportunities that offer them chances to progress more attractive. Sixty-five percent also say that personal development is important criteria for them when selecting a job.
These numbers mean that Millennials can be positive additions to your organization. They can help to boost morale and their inner drive will encourage them to think outside the box and drive themselves forward towards success. These Millennials will be very goal-oriented and be constantly looking for ways to improve their role in the organization.
Millennials are very ethical and carry that with them in the business world
Most Millennials believe that businesses should work towards having a positive impact on the world around them, such as initiating practices geared towards protecting the earth’s resources. Half also say that they prefer to work for companies that have ethical business practices.
As Millennials enter the workforce, organizations will be more influenced and encouraged to abide by their ethical obligations and have a positive impact on society around them. This can not only help make the organization a positive force, it will also make it easier to build relationships with consumers and help to create a positive reputation for the business.
Millennials are an educated group
Millennials are becoming the most educated generation in history. The people in this age cohort are more likely than those in other generations to have pursued a college degree, as nearly 70 percent of high school graduates will enroll in an institute of higher learning. Your business can reap the benefits of this education in the form of critical thinking skills and strong work ethics.
Millennials are quickly becoming a dominant force both within businesses and as consumers. As organizations find themselves increasingly facing the resumes from members of this generation, understanding the benefits of working with these young professionals can help you find the candidate that will help your organization reach the levels desired.
David is the author of the Wall Street Journal bestsellers, The Sandler Rules: 49 Timeless Selling Principles and How to Apply Them and Sandler Success Principles: 11 Insights that will change the way you think and sell. He regularly authors articles for business publications and continues to be involved in the ongoing creation and development of new Sandler training products and programs.
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