Millennials are an engaging and diverse group. I spend a lot of time with them, gaining insight into how they live, work and shop and what they’re learning in their professional lives about building self-confidence, self-esteem, and their careers. Here are some of their favorite tips in their own voices:
Bring your best game
Bring your best self: dress for success, arrive on time, and be the wisest and most appropriate version of yourself – at work and in life. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being your best self. Work is not the place to dress down, speak poorly, or display bad habits.
Carry cash
Now that you’re traveling, taking clients to lunch, grabbing a taxi, you’re going to need to tip people. From the coat check person and the valet to someone who’s gone above and beyond, carrying cash is a necessity. Carry singles.
Learn to Pivot
Things change often and fast. What worked yesterday may not a day later. Take it in stride, see the positive. Be resilient, and learn to pivot.
Take notes
When it’s not just millennials in the room, take notes, and do it with pen and paper rather than use your phones or laptops. Our older managers are put off when laptops and phones are used during conversations and meetings, even if you’re taking notes. Always carry a notebook and pen so you’re prepared for note-taking.
Maximize savings
Every financial expert says the same thing: start your retirement plan while you’re young. In addition to keeping six months’ worth of expenses in savings, contribute the maximum amount to your 401(k) – especially if your company matches. Not taking the matching money is leaving money on the table.
My favorite tip from millennials: Learn as much as you can from everyone with more experience.
