As Baby Boomers enter retirement, hiring Millennials is unavoidable. They are the next generation of the workforce, despite any reputations they have acquired over the last decade. Knowledge can help prepare hiring managers and other business professionals deal with the change. The song “I’m the Man” by Aloe Blacc characterizes the young professional generation, and examining the lyrics can explain how Millennials benefit the workplace.

I played my cards and I didn’t fold, well it ain’t that hard when you got soul

Millennials unfortunately suffer a higher level of unemployment than the rest of the general public. Millennial college graduates over the age of 25 are experiencing a higher than normal 3.3 percent unemployment rate. A further 16.8 percent are underemployed, meaning they have their degree but can’t find a professional job and they currently work part-time. They face challenges statistically and stereotypically snagging their dream career, but that doesn’t discourage them from continuing the pursuit. That kind of persistence and dedication would benefit any employer.

Somewhere I heard life is a test, I been through the worst but I still give my best

As with any other generation, Millennials are formed by the world events around them. Their influences shaped their team-oriented behavior. Sixty percent of Millennials would rather collaborate in person versus the 34 percent of them who would rather work together online. This trait is a widely sought-after professional characteristic. Collaboration brought about some of today’s most valuable brands, such as Apple and has begun to touch name brands such as Kraft and Volkswagen. The latter two companies asked consumers – through social media – to create print ads for their products, collaborating (or crowdsourcing) with the Millennials who use them the most.

I got all the answers to your questions, I’ll be the teacher you can be the lesson

These 20-somethings grew up in the technology age. Their tech know-how is almost innate. The young professionals are still willing to learn, and quite frankly, they still have a bit of knowledge to gain. The United States is behind in STEM(science, technology, engineering, math) studies, currently ranking 17 out of 19 in problem solving and 21 out of 23 in math. Despite the recent decrease in STEM graduates, the overwhelming majority – 66 percent to be exact – of Millennials are pro-gadget when it comes to workplace technology. It isn’t much of a notable difference between them and their professional predecessors. Baby Boomers are willing to use more varying types of technology at work; 55 percent of them say they would use wearable technology in the office.

I’m a soldier standing on my feet, no surrender and I won’t retreat

Millennials are known to be headstrong and stubborn. According to Julie Sweet, they are becoming the new Greatest Generation. Their political and civil involvement rivals that of their grandparents. In fact, 70 percent of the 20-somethings entering corporate lobbies in hopes of a successful interview believe it is very important to help those in need. This evidence shows their potential involvement in office activities including volunteer and charity organizations companies might be connected with.

Read more…

Originally posted on Recruiter.com

Maren Hogan

Maren Hogan is CEO of Red Branch and general Bad@$$

Maren Hogan is a seasoned marketer and community builder in the HR and Recruiting industry. Maren started Red Branch Media and, before she hired all the smiling faces you see below, she ran it on her own. In marketing for over 15 years, she has deep experience in strategic campaigns and a long-term, results-based operational approach.