Millennials in the Workforce
Every generation faces different obstacles when entering the workforce, and Millennials are no exception. The Millennials are the generation that follow Generation X and the Baby Boomer era, with birth dates ranging from the early 1980s to the late 1990s. These Millennials are now coming of age, and they are entering the workforce by the millions. However, unlike with previous generations, advancements in technology have drastically changed the hiring process and job roles.
Changes in the Hiring Process
It used to be that searching for a job was done by flipping through the classifieds in the local newspaper, or by talking directly to representatives of a company. Nowadays job searching usually takes place online using various employment search engines that allow a prospective employee to submit a resume within minutes. While this process has its advantages, there are distinct disadvantages as well.
An advantage that millennials have, in regards to the hiring process, is the ability to apply for several jobs at the same time using online job platforms. Instead of choosing one particular job, prospective employees can search hundreds of jobs that meet their criteria and submit applications accordingly. In addition to being able to view multiple job openings, the internet has made it possible for job searchers to posts resumes on employment websites so that employers can contact them if they have the qualifications they are seeking.
While there is no doubt that technology has improved certain aspects of job searching, there are some drawbacks as well. When applying for a job online, there is no face-to-face interaction with the potential employer, and therefore it can be difficult to express other qualities, such as personality traits, that may put them ahead of the competition. The ease at which candidates can submit applications, also means that millennials might be competing with dozens of other applicants.
Job Roles in the Modern World
As more Baby Boomers retire from the workforce, they leave an employment gap for the Millennials to fill. However, with advancements in technology changing the way business is conducted, many of these Millennials must adapt to new job roles. And while Millennials have access to information on a level previously unheard of, this can create some disadvantages as well.
With the scope of the internet increasing, Millennials bring to the table the ability to gather information from a vast array of resources. This can lead to increased efficiency in the workplace, in addition to opening new lines of communication among clients. Whereas meetings with clients in other parts of the country used to involve boarding a plane and meeting the client in person, this can now be done online using Skype or other web applications.
These advancements in technology have also led to skepticism as to whether Millennials are as dedicated to their job as prior generations. Employers are concerned that with so much communication taking place in a virtual world, Millennials will have difficulty dealing with issues in person. Furthermore, there is some doubt whether Millennials value the importance of meeting face-to-face.
