What’s been your response to the millennial question? Over the last couple of weeks I have been inviting you to consider the question…to engage in the inevitable.
Again – what has been your response?
How will you help fully engage the younger generation in your business? The reality is that this generation will be filling the roles in all businesses. If you don’t engage you do have other options.
- Perhaps downsize, diminishing or removing the need to hire.
- Perhaps become a “solopreneur”….do everything yourself. I suspect this option does not put a smile on your face.
We have explored the “4 institutions” that are no longer foundational to the development of our young people – at least not in the way we may have experienced them. I also invited you to consider two key actions and mandates that, as Christ-following leaders, are tremendous opportunities to express the beauty of gospel and kingdom of Jesus: The Great Commandment and The Great Commission.
Simon Sinek, a current day thought leader on work and people, has some helpful insight into our reality as business leaders who must engage fully in the beauty and the challenge of hiring and developing talent from the millennial generation. He reminds us of 4 key areas that will likely not surprise you.
These 4 areas are having a profound impact on how many millennials are viewing and coming into the workplace. See if my thoughts below resonate for you as I reflect on Simon’s 4 key areas
1. Parenting.
“Johnny” learned that:
- He was the “center of the universe”. All activity and focus was on him.
- He would get a trophy just for “showing up” at a race – even if he didn’t offer his best effort.
- When he wanted something, the “universe” would turn upside down to ensure that he got whatever he needed to make him ‘happy’.
Now…in the workplace, “Johnny” doesn’t understand why he is no longer the center of the universe and why he may not get paid if he doesn’t do the work he was asked to do.
2. Technology.
This thing called “Social Media” has seduced many into a world where they must be seen as happy and perfect to all who are watching them online – even if it may be far from reality. To be seen otherwise can become a serious hit to their self-esteem. Other times, their profiles reflect out-of-control, reckless behaviour without a care for potential consequences down the road.
Our kids are likely addicted (and probably you and me too) to our devices. The science is overwhelming when it comes to the impact on our brains. In the past we have had to accommodate breaks for those with nicotine addictions. I wonder if the same is needed for those needing a chemical hit by viewing their screen.
3. Impatience.
Many millennials have never not-known about computers and the Internet, let alone “smart” phones. Life has presented to them a world of instant access, immediate results.
“Instant” falls apart when they expect a raise but are denied because they need to grow more in their role, providing the value needed to justify the additional pay.
“Instant” also falls apart when discovering that meaningful relationships take thoughtful investment of time, energy and commitment.
4. Work Environment.
Simon’s last focus is this… It is what it is. Many millennials are coming in to the workplace predisposed as described above.
While that may be the case, we also need results within the role they are employed. It is here that I make my strong case for us, as Christ-following business leaders. We have the privilege and significant challenge of leading these young people in a way that blesses them and your business. We can have a significant impact as Christ uses us to help disciple this next generation.
Here are 7 steps you can do to help millennials engage well with you and your business:
- Ensure you are learning and growing as a devoted Christ-follower yourself. Are you modeling for them what’s possible in Christ? They need to “see” the hope of the gospel. Is that what you are presenting to them?
- See the “millennial”, not in judgment, but as they really are – image bearers; the “Imago Dei”. See them as Christ sees them – worthy of His best!
- Be CRYSTAL clear on the vision for yourself and your business. You cannot lead them to places you have not experienced and are pursuing.
- Help them discover their vision and experience the overlap between your vision and theirs. Do this and the “buy-in” will begin to occur.
- Learn to be genuinely curious about what is important to them. Within the context of time and work to be done, ask thoughtful questions. Help them know that you truly have their best interest at heart.
- Leverage your values and theirs (part of the vision process), providing frequent feedback – the good and the constructive. Focus on character.
- Stay the course. This may be so very challenging and difficult yet so worth the effort!
Hiring and leading millennials in our business has, quite honestly, and yes with challenge, been tremendous.
I invite you to engage in this tremendous opportunity we have to participate in what Christ is doing in the work place. He has us right there, right now with the privilege of being the gospel to a whole other generation.
Are you willing to join us?
A Deliberate Application:
- With other leaders, review the 3 blogs.
- What are you in agreement with? What challenges you? Why?
- How is Christ inviting you to see millennials? Is this how you have been viewing them?
- What steps will you take to lead yourself and the millennials in your world better?
