Graduates Face Generation Gap

How Millenials Can Overcome Negative Stereotypes in the Job Market
College students graduating this spring have green job pastures over the horizon, with college hiring increasing as much as 17.4 percent this year, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. However, it’s not the lack of green pastures that plague this new generation of workers. It’s their grazing habits.

This year’s graduates are part of the Millennial Generation, which is often termed the “Entitlement Generation” by Gen Xers who view Millennials as demanding, narcissistic and impatient. So, as college students trade in shorts and t-shirts for a new suit this Spring, how can they combat employers’ preconceptions and prove their worth?
Tom Gimbel, CEO of The LaSalle Network, has placed more than 8,000 employees at 800 different companies, and offers the following tips to help Millennials become an undeniable asset to employers rather than just a necessity.
Use Your “Technability”: Young employees tend to be more conversant on the newest technology, so put your technability to use! Look for new ways to add value to your employer and be willing to help others with technical issues.
Find a Hero: Whether it was Rainbow Bright or Spiderman, chances are you had a hero as a kid. As a rookie employee, you should also have a hero. Find someone within the company you connect with and from whom you can learn.
Don’t Be a Mama’s Boy or Girl: You’re no longer in grade school, so your parents should not be calling your employer requesting a raise or a lighter workload for you. Employers want employees who can think for themselves and handle their own situations without running to mommy.
Bust Out the Megaphone: As a recent grad, you bring a fresh perspective into a company. So, if you see areas on which the company can improve, speak up! Offer to tackle the problems head on and prove you can add value to the company.
You’re Good Enough, You’re Smart Enough, But You’re Not That Special: The biggest concern about Millennials is their work ethic. You are an entry-level employee, not the CEO, so expect to do some menial work. Come in early, leave late and volunteer to go beyond your job responsibilities to prove to employers you’re willing to work your way up.
“Starting work, like starting college, is a natural transition in life,” Gimbel says. “You should approach the first days, weeks and months in your first job as you would a date with the most beautiful person in the world – dress to impress, be polite and let your talent shine.”
About The LaSalle Network
Built on the principle that, “Our People Make the Difference,” The LaSalle Network is the fastest growing staffing, recruiting and executive search firm in Chicago with an average annual growth of 30% since 2001. The LaSalle Network delivers comprehensive staffing and employment solutions through a series of programs designed to engage, qualify, and onboard temporary and permanent employees. For more information, visit www.thelasallenetwork.com.