I don't know about you, but I'm tired of hearing how poorly young people behave in the workplace. So I'm here to bust some myths regarding younger workers.
Myth #1
They are unreliable – Compared to what? Compared to the parents of young children who need to be at home with their sick kids? Or the older worker who feels he or she has earned the right to take Friday as a mental health day.
Myth #2
They don't play well with other people – I'm typing this as my son's young guitar teacher is strumming along side of him. They seem to be playing very nicely together.
Myth #3
They need to be closely managed – The young people at the Apple Store seem to be doing a fine job of managing themselves. No one appears to be hanging around waiting for someone else to give them directions. Maybe because they are engaged and enjoy what they are doing.
Myth #4
They will leave the moment they receive a better offer – Yeah…so will everyone else, so what's your point?
Myth #5
Their parents are pulling their strings – There are many young people out in the workplace who operate without constant direction from their parents. These people are the kind of employees you want to hire for your workplace, as they are self-motivated.
I'm interested in hearing from both young and a bit older on what myths you believe should be busted when it comes to young people in the workplace. Please add your comments to this posting.
Roberta
