Debunking the Aussie Millennials’ Work Ethics

WORDS: PHOTOGRAPHY

By 2025, the Millennial generation (those born between 1980-2000) will make up the global workforce’s largest percentage. And when it comes to Australia, it is estimated that they will comprise almost 75 percent. It’s no wonder that companies are concerned about how this transition will impact their business.

If organizations put effort into understanding this generation’s motivation and attitudes toward the workplace, it will enable them to capitalize on their talent and thrive. 

You’ve most probably heard that Millennials lack work ethics. Try again. This generation is often described as lazy and entitled, but the truth is that Millennials work hard and value work. 

So, how different are this generation’s employees in their approach to work? Let’s debunk the Aussie Millennials’ work ethics together! 

Do Millennials work hard enough?

Millennials are generally not considered to be a hard-working generation. Instead, they are often labeled as difficult, texting all the time and taking frequent breaks. Although many are quick to make such assumptions, it couldn’t be further from the truth.

Individuals belonging to this generation are incredibly productive workers. And beyond that: they are less likely to take paid time off in comparison to their older counterparts. They would even feel guilty about making such a request. 

According to research, they are actually workaholics. Many of them have side hustles in addition to their full-time jobs. 

Focus on the outcome

Contrary to the widespread stereotypes painting Millennials as unmotivated and self-centered, they are very outcome-focused when it comes to working so much that they see the hierarchy as getting in the way of gaining access to the information they need. 

This may challenge the senior leader’s traditional approach, but it leads to a more agile organization.

This generation is simply used to the efficiency that came with digital technology like instant global communication. Their high expectations regarding access and immediacy can be seen as positive signs of engagement.

Adapting and multitasking are their strengths

Since the Millennials are the first generation of digital natives, it’s embedded in their lives, nurturing a constructive attitude toward technology. This ease of use makes it easier for them to adapt to technological problem-solving and multitask.

Millennials want to work smarter, and given the incredible pace at which the technology is advancing, Australian businesses can benefit from allowing Millennials to exhibit their talents.

Take rosters and scheduling, for example. Instead of starting their roster from scratch and using a manual rostering process, Millennials are more likely to take advantage of the best rostering software in Australia and build rosters easily while scheduling employees to be in the right place at the right time.

A peer-centered generation

Australian Millennials utilize digital technology to stay connected to their social circles. Their tendency for strong social connection makes them more inclined toward collaboration in the workplace. They work well in teams, and they favor this type of work. 

In addition to that, this generation’s preference for social media presence creates an opportunity for crowd-sourcing of opinion and experience. 

Greater company loyalty

Millennials show greater company loyalty than what is commonly considered. They are prepared to go all-in if organizations can inspire their commitment. And when it comes to Aussie Millennials, they exhibit longer tenure compared to their international counterparts. 

Millennial employees embrace life learning, so companies that offer upskilling will capitalize on their desire to gain more knowledge and experience.

Also, this generation aspires to easier transitions between life and work. It keeps them more motivated and engaged. Australian companies could benefit from greater flexibility and providing more freedom in structuring work activity as a retainment strategy.

The definition of work has changed

Many who belong to this notorious generation are constantly connected to work, colleagues,  information sources, and producing content. The lines between work and life have been blurred more than ever before.

Despite the hours they spend on the job, and despite the hours of classes, volunteering, studying, responding to emails, and blogging, it seems that this generation has bought the stereotype that they don’t work as hard.

Especially if a person happens to do what they enjoy and love, they will hardly view their passion as work. 

Wrapping it up

One comprehensive research based on more than 4 million completed surveys confirmed that differences between generations in work values are modest and subtle, contrary to the popular stereotypes. 

In the end, Aussie Millennials are raising the bar in their aspiration for a more effective workplace, and career, just like any generation before them did.