3 Ways Technology Changed The Millennial Workforce

Fundamentally, the term “technology” simply describes the different types of tools that people use to accomplish tasks with greater speed and efficiency. While technological progress is certainly not exclusive to the 20th and 21st centuries, the last few decades have seen explosive growth in the use of cutting-edge technology in the home and workplace. As the generation that grew up with computers, gadgets and high-speed internet, it’s no wonder that the millennial workforce has been shaped by technology. In fact, 2/3 of millennials think social media is as important as talking in person. Employers in many industries have already felt the effects of this phenomenon as they recruit and integrate new employees into their company.

Desire For Frequent Communication

One of the most notable effects of technology on millennials is a strong desire for clear, direct and frequent communication. This not only applies to conversations with fellow employees, but also to instruction and feedback from superiors within an organization. They expect company leaders to correct them if they are making mistakes and provide insight into on-going projects on a regular basis. Prolific use of smart phones and computers have diminished communication time down to mere seconds, so younger employees expect to be answered promptly.

Opportunity For Self-Improvement

A desire for upward potential is a defining characteristic of the millennial workforce, particularly since technology puts a plethora of possibilities at their fingertips. Online education, for example, allows students to continue their schooling and develop their professional skills without strict limitations on location or scheduling. They are more likely to participate in online programs like a masters degree in electrical engineering. This generation also appreciated when employers contribute to their own professional development to help them fully fill their role within the company.

Expectations Of Advanced Technology At Work

Millennials don’t just prefer to work in high-tech environments, they expect their employers to be on the ball when it comes to advanced solutions in the workplace. There are many applications of technology that greatly enhance core processes for companies in almost any industry. Employers who hesitate to innovate could find themselves struggling to retain their younger employees, especially if those employees feel they are not reaching their potential due to lack of appropriate tools.

While the typical expectations, goals and values of millennials have certainly shifted compared to those of prior generations, they are not necessarily strange or novel. Members of the new workforce look for technological solutions to almost any problem or situation, which indicates that they want to work smarter rather than harder. Companies that are able to harness this innovative and adaptive nature can incorporate the generation’s strengths into the fabric of their organization to ensure future success.