Managing the Millennials, 2nd Edition

Chapter 5Be Flexible: When Letting Them Have It Their Way Makes Sense

Flexing with the Autonomous

I kissed a lot of butts to get where I am today, and now it's time for someone to kiss mine.

—A consulting team manager

I told them that I could only work three times a week, and they scheduled me five times a week…This has happened to me twice. So, I ended up quitting.

—A Millennial

We want to have a say about when we work and how we do our work.

—A Millennial

All things being equal, when there is a choice between getting your way and going their way, go their way. The idea that leaders and managers are going to change members of the current generation into what they want them to be is a strategy destined for failure. Only by flexing with the concerns of Millennials will today's managerial leaders have opportunity to develop the trust and rapport required to lead them.

The Millennial Intrinsic Value: Work-Life Blending

Work-life blending is one of the most celebrated values of the Millennial generation. They work to live—not live to work. They don't mind accessing work during their personal time, but they want to access their personal life during work. They want time for friends, family, and doing the things they enjoy. It does not mean that they are lazy. It does not mean that they do not want to work. They want work that is meaningful. They want work that is challenging. And they want it on their terms. They do not necessarily wish to forego upward mobility or opportunity ...