In the workplace, Millennials are often plagued by the stereotypes of being lazy and entitled know-it-alls. Many employers often complain of being unable to motivate Millennials to get the job done. Like all generalizations, this can be harmful to the truly diligent and ambitious workers out there. If you’re a millennial trying to prove your worth at the office, here are some tips for making your professional life a bit easier.
Be humble
A little humility can go a long way as you ease into your new position. Or even as you try to reinvent yourself at your current position. Constantly displaying a willingness to learn, accept constructive criticism, and be a team player can change the way you are viewed. You might even find your coworkers and senior staff more willing to assist you and give you more responsibility. Don’t assume you know anything. Listen and observe keenly and always be willing to seek additional guidance if anything is unclear.
Nobody likes a know-it-all, especially when they don’t know it all.
Don’t expect overnight success
This goes hand-in-hand with being humble. Recognize that reaching big milestones often requires extended periods of focused work. Don’t expect your first project to be perfect with minimal effort. Don’t expect a promotion or pay raise after just a few months on the job. Even if you are incredibly talented, it may take time for those around you to recognize your skills. It may take even longer for you to earn their trust. Just do the work and trust the process.
Refine your communication skills
The way we communicate is one of the first things people notice. And Millennials have a reputation for preferring emojis over real words and using modern slang in place of business language. Take care to refine your written and verbal communications so you can present the most polished version of yourself. For written communications, this can mean diligently proofreading your emails for grammar and clarity. If it’s allowed, you could even download an app like Grammarly to help you catch mistakes. Aim to make your verbal communications concise, free from verbal tics and
Ask good questions
Building on the previous topic, learning how to ask good questions can make all the difference for your work experience. Asking thoughtful and relevant questions can help you better gather the information you need to get your job done well and set you apart from your peers. But remember, asking good questions starts with paying attention and listening. Be present. Be observant.
Be self-aware
Self-awareness is a crucial aspect of success in life in general, not just for Millennials. Knowing who you are, what you want, and your flaws will go a long way in optimizing your self-regulation. Don’t be afraid the spend time alone, writing down your feelings and aspirations and examining the potential obstacles to achieving your goals. Consistent reflection can help you to learn more from each experience.
About the Author:
Jordan Perez is a human resource expert at ResumePundits.com with over 10
