The Millennials

Characteristics

• Techno-savvy

• Connected 24/7

• Self-confident

• Optimistic

• Hopeful

• Independent

• Comfortably self-reliant

• Determined

• Goal oriented

• Success driven

• Lifestyle centered

• Diverse

• Inclusive

• Global-, civic- and community-minded

• Pulling together

• Service oriented

• Entrepreneurial

Beliefs

• Education is good

• Integrity is admirable

• Parents are role models

Defining life experiences

• Grew up basking in "The Decade of the Child" — children on a pedestal vs. "children seen and not heard."

• Fathers became more involved in parenting.

• Came of age during a time of incredible change and scandal within modern organizations.

• Most "hovered over" generation ever in our country; unprecedented parental supervision and advocacy.

Defining life events

• Columbine High School

• 9/11

• Enron, WorldCom, etc.

• War in Iraq

• Nuclear threat from North Korea

• Emerging nations — China, India

Impact of technological advancement

• Never experienced life without computers

• Reverse accumulation of knowledge — the younger you are, the more you know

• All information is a click away; so is the competition

• The world is a click away

At work

• Work well with friends and on teams

• Collaborative, resourceful, innovative thinkers

• Love a challenge

• Seek to make a difference

• Want to produce something worthwhile

• Desire to be a hero

• Impatient

• Comfortable with speed and change

• Thrive on flexibility and space to explore

• Partner well with mentors

• Value guidance

• Expect respect

Source: Compiled by Leah A. Reynolds, Deloitte Consulting LLP