The Millenial Gen

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams." - Eleanor Roosevelt

Millienials - Reshaping Our World?

I have heard about the names given to different generations, like us, the Baby Boomers, Boomers for short. Does anybody know the name for the generation between the years 1965 to 1980? I suppose they get lumped into either Boomers or Millennials, depending upon how close their birthday is to either.

Millennials, born between 1981 and 1996, have been credited in helping shape our modern world. In marketing research, social media and influencing nearly every aspect of society. 

Technology and Communication

Are Millennials true digital natives? If so, the fact they have grown up alongside the internet and mobile technology, says they are. Their tech-savvy has revolutionized how we interact with each other on the internet to access information:

• Digital Adoption: Millennials spearheaded the widespread use of smartphones, social media, and online communication platforms.

• Sharing Economy: They have embraced and popularized services like Uber, Airbnb, and co-office spaces, fundamentally altering traditional business models. Thank goodness standing workspaces had a short shelf life.

• User Experience Focus: High expectations for user-friendly technology have pushed companies to prioritize design and functionality in digital products.

  
  

Workplace and Employment

Millennial’s approach to work has sparked changes in employment practices and workplace culture:

• Work-Life Balance: They prioritize a healthy balance between professional and personal life, often seeking flexible work arrangements and remote options.

• Purpose-Driven Careers: Millennials are more likely to seek jobs that align with their values and allow them to make a positive impact.

• Collaboration: Inclined to having a collaborative spirit, Millennials prefer teamwork and open communication in the workplace.

  
  

Social and Political Landscape

Once again Millennials have been shaped social and political discourse:

• Social Activism: They actively engage in social and political issues, using social media to raise awareness and advocate for change.

• Diversity and Inclusion: They have played a key role in promoting inclusivity and challenging traditional norms relating to gender, sexuality, and race.

• Mental Health Awareness: Millennials have helped destigmatize mental health issues, encouraging open discussions and seeking help when needed.

Consumer and Lifestyle Trends

Millennial preferences have significantly impacted consumer trends and lifestyle choices:

• Experience Preferred: They prioritize experiences over material possessions, driving growth in travel, entertainment, and wellness industries.

• Sustainability: Millennials are more conscious of the environmental and social impact of their purchases, fuelling demand for sustainable and ethical products.

• Health and Wellness: Personal well-being has boosted the fitness, wellness, and organic food industries, thanks to Millennials.

Corporate Social Responsibility

Millennials have been a driving force behind the increased focus on corporate social responsibility (CSR):

• Brand Image: Companies with strong CSR strategies enjoy enhanced reputations, better publicity and increased sales.

• Customer Loyalty: A commitment to social good helps establishes emotional connections with consumers, especially those of their own generation.

• Talent Attraction: Socially conscious organizations are more appealing to millennial job seekers and investors.

Lessons

As a Boomer, work-life balance, purpose driven careers and collaboration are values that our generation can learn from. Some societies, the Japanese for example have no work-life balance, their culture places loyalty to their corporate bosses over the value of family. History is showing the horrible price the Japanese are paying for putting corporate life above family life. That price is a declining population with little chance of recovery.

The sad thing is that to a lessor extent, some countries have not learned the lessons of the Japanese. If they have, the governments have a challenging task in convincing their citizens, or offering sufficient incentive, to have more babies.

Millennials can teach us more lessons as they enter leadership positions and further establish their presence across society. Their influence on our world is only set to grow. Their values, preferences, and expectations are reshaping industries, workplaces, and social norms, paving the way for a more connected, sustainable, and purpose-driven future.