But, are these individuals really as spoiled, selfish and arrogant as they are made out to be?
According to human resource consultancy Aon Hewitt, millennials make up the largest generation in the Singapore workforce. As such, the generation that has been typecasted as individuals who are unable to withstand societal pressure or hard work, is reshaping the professional environment.
But, are these individuals really as spoiled, selfish and arrogant as they are made out to be? Does that incite a rational cause for worry as “the worst generation to ever live” effectively shapes the local workforce?
Amid global economic torpor and an uncertain job market in Singapore, I spoke to 10 millennials to gain a more insightful perspective on their mentality towards three things: their confidence in the job market, job security and employment expectations—in hopes that their answers will dissolve the stereotypes and put any qualms that the Generation X and Baby Boomers might have of millennials in the workplace to rest.
Confidence In The Current Job Market
When asked to rate their confidence in the current job market on a scale of 1 to 10, the average tallies at an unfavourable 6. Most of the individuals that I’ve spoken to are employed, but their lack of confidence in the job market stems from second-hand observations, most commonly from friends who are searching for jobs but have yet to secure one.
“I’ve heard that the number of job openings is lower than the number of job seekers in the current market. Personally, I can feel the impact at work or via conversations with friends; a glossary of terms such as hiring freeze, cost-cutting, layoff and multi-tasking is dominating our conversations.”
—Lynn, 27
“I’ve read about how the job market is looking down right now, and I’ve also observed friends who are unemployed struggling to secure a job. As of now, it doesn’t seem like a pretty idea for me to hop jobs.”
—Cheryl, 23
However, their uncertainty in their own skill sets and experience also reflects their lack of confidence in the job market.
“Nowadays, having a degree is no big deal. In the end, all employers want is someone with experience, putting us fresh graduates at a disadvantage.”
—Yanti, 23
“Without a degree, my skill sets seem less specialised in comparison to those who do and finding a job can be challenging based on that.”
—Nairah, 26
Job Security
When asked how secure they feel in their current job, the answers are split right up the middle. Millennials who feel secure in their jobs cited logical reasonings that divert from any evidence of an inflated ego or entitled attitude.
“I feel quite secure in my current job mainly because 1) my company’s industry is not in the red zone and we are profiting from other sectors, and 2) I am in a management trainee programme whereby the company has made a commitment to developing us.”
—Jamie, 24
“Yes. I presently hold a role that can be deemed as rather indispensable at the present moment. However, I’m also cautious not to take these for granted. Changes take place very quickly in my firm, and you never know when difficult decisions will have to be made overnight. Thus, I make it a point to stay relevant.”
—Ali, 27
However, those who do not possess a sense of security at their current employment were very rational and realistic about it.
“Not really, no one is indispensable.”
—Amelia, 25
“Honestly, no job is secure given the current real-world economy. Today, you may step into work with a generous amount of work, but the next day you can just as easily be asked to leave. I’ve always believed that no one is irreplaceable in any professional setting and that is the harsh reality.”
—Lynn, 27
Expectations of Employers
Millennials aren’t all work and no play. When asked how they think employers can compel them to stay with the organisation in the long run, there are those who expressed interest in attending trainings and courses in their free time that will allow them to develop personally.
“Provide me with constant feedback for self-improvement and send me for training so that I can be of more value to the company.”
—Amelia, 25
“Personal growth and career advancement opportunities will show that the company is keen on investing in me as an individual and in turn, I feel good giving my best for and growing with the company. It’s a two-way street.”
—Mischa, 29
But of course, millennials aren’t used to being turned a blind eye on considering their voices are all over the internet and on social media. Therefore, recognition is still key to a millennial’s loyalty, and it doesn’t always have to be in the form of higher paychecks.
“I think showing appreciation for my effort and contribution is crucial to my tenure. It goes to show that whatever I’ve been doing is recognised and has benefitted the company. This will definitely motivate me to work harder for the organisation.”
—Xue Min, 25
“Management should always make employees feel like they are included in the organisation. This can be done via a feedback system that will not only make employees feel included, but also appreciated because their voices are heard. But a quicker fix would be to give out bonuses or merit increases.”
—Farah, 22
