Trophy Kids in the Workplace

[Beth_IA]

There has been much talk about the generation that is termed "Millennials" and countless articles and books written about them. In the article "The 'Trophy Kids' Go to Work", it states that Millennials need constant praise and have more workplace demands such as time off, flexible work schedule and higher salaries.

I'm curious for those who fall into this generation, do you agree with what is written about your generation?

And for those of you who are baby boomers or Gen-Xers, what is your perspective on this generation?

[JuliaS]

This article made me laugh more than a few times, mostly because I can think of people who fit this description completely.

Not sure if it applies to the whole generation though, but more to a certain group of kids whose parents raised them that way. Maybe it takes a further study to look at the ages/socio-economic/geographical locations of the parents that raised these "Millennials", I also think it applies more to the latter half, rather than those kids raised in the early 80's.

I of course don't consider myself one even though I technically just fit the age bracket.

[Adamvv]

Although I fit in the age bracket as well, and although I relate to some of the arguments, I feel as though I am respectful enough to know my place and understand that I need to work hard to get to where I want to go.

I don't think I feel a sense of entitlement, but I do feel strongly about my opinions and I'm a strong enough character to argue my point...but I don't consider myself to be a "Trophy Kid".

I think it comes down to respect. I know people who were spoon fed throughout their upbringing, but I have worked since I was 16 and paid my way through University, so it's difficult to say that it was 'easy'. But I know too many people who expect things to be given to them and have trouble being criticized constructively.

Although this generation is ambitious and knowledgeable, I think the difference between each person will be how they can adapt and react to situations where they aren't given the keys to daddy's car - if you catch my drift.

This crop of talent is different than previous generations and it will take a two-way street of communication in order to extract the most out of both sides. I think we are in a unique position to really offer a lot of insight and innovation to companies. The companies who realize this and groom new employees will likely reap the rewards down the road.

I liked this quote from the article...

Clearly, companies that want to compete for top talent must bend a bit and adapt to the millennial generation. Employers need to show new hires how their work makes a difference and why it's of value to the company. Smart managers will listen to their young employees' opinions, and give them some say in decisions. Employers also can detail the career opportunities available to millennials if they'll just stick around awhile. Indeed, it's the wealth of opportunities that will prove to be the most effective retention tool.

[Renee]

I had a whole post written about this, but I deleted it because it turned into a bitchfest about my sister.

Some of the article has some good points but I believe others is a little over dramatised.

I am one of these people, born in 1983. I live with my parents because they forced me to after losing my house to my ex and gaining a huge debt from it. It's definitely not from choice, in fact I never even considered moving back there until my father told me he wanted me to, and because of the debt from the house I had no choice.
Plus, my parents are European and don't believe their children should pay for anything.. so when I tell my dad I would like to give him rent money, to help pay bills, to wash up the dishes, wash clothes etc, he wont have a bar of it. I'm also the same as you Adam, have worked since I was 15 and have never had a day of being unemployed. I have also never asked my parents for anything and will never take anything from them.
My siblings on the other hand take advantage of my parent's generosity as much as they can. I hate that. But the article reminded me of the way they treat my parents.

Anyhow I wont go into a bitchfest.. Just a couple of points above.