Millennials seeking integration into R.I. business scene

So much is made today of the proverbial ‘Millennial Generation.’

Millennial is loosely defined as the generation of those born between the 1980s and early 2000s. Yet the next generation of leadership is on the endangered list and may possibly be overlooked due to stereotype.

What becomes apparent is the negative connotation of “millennial”; especially in a veteran Rhode Island corporate structure. Seasoned bosses in the more traditional fields of accounting, law, insurance, banking, and real estate often use the term only when accompanied with a wry smirk. But this generation is what the tech, biomed and creative industries are using to make major moves. The following is how some Rhode Islanders view the millennial:

  • Under 35
  • Engages in constant electronic communication
  • Has a laptop on the ready
  • Propensity to work in teams
  • Initiates work day before 6 a.m. from home
  • Tendency to work remotely well after 10 p.m.
  • Enjoys an energetic environment
  • Likes networking while grabbing a latte
  • Dresses in business casual; while well-coiffed and style aware
  • Optimistic about the future

Is this different than the baby boomers? Absolutely. But lets look at the overall picture. The list describes someone who is entering their working prime, always on the job, works well with others, not limited by 9-5, constantly makes contacts, seeks lively working environments, cares about appearance, and recognizes no glass ceiling.

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In the end, compromises must be made by both sides to ensure mutual benefit. And yet maybe management can learn how to attract and develop the millennials because they are the future. The local economy is stagnant so isn’t it time corporations awarded the opportunity when merited? Rhode Island must adjust because millennials do produce big results when given the chance.

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