Millennials are lazy, entitled and selfish. So says the stereotype and that stereotype is one that almost certainly influences employer decisions when it comes to hiring. As a millennial myself, I am quite happy to admit that the stereotype does not exist without reason. There are regrettably, many who exhibit these poor characteristics.

Employers are, however, often inclined to hold on to the negatives and ignore many of the positives and indeed, advantages, of hiring people of my generation. So, for the sceptical employer, here are five things millennials can offer your business.

Here's what millennials can offer.

Fresh perspectives

Young people can offer your business new ideas and a fresh outlook on the way your business operates. This doesn't have to be at the executive level; even at lower levels, in simpler roles concerned with simpler tasks, a young person can help streamline processes and improve efficiency. Much of this comes with the awareness of new ideas, processes and technologies possessed by an emerging 21st century workforce. Millennials can help your business stay up to date on the current industrial and technological trends that might otherwise adversely impact your business's competitiveness.

Tech-savviness

One of the greatest strengths possessed by millennials is tech know-how. This is something that will consistently bring benefit to workplaces occupied by older employees who, while exceptionally experienced, will often struggle with the operation of new technology. Young people are digital natives and take to new tech like fish to water. If you are seeking to introduce new digital technology to your business, it makes sense to hire a young person who will quickly master its operation and operate it efficiently.

Laziness

Yes, that is correct, one of the greatest perceived drawbacks of my generation may actually prove an exceptional driver of efficiency. Lazy people think outside the box to find easier, quicker and more efficient ways of doing things. Of course, your prospective employee must still at their core, possess a good work ethic, but a 'healthy' level of laziness may well prove beneficial to processes which might, unbeknownst to you, be inefficient.

Confidence

Young people can bring confidence and dynamism into the workplace. This is for the most part a good thing, because you ultimately want outgoing people who can contribute to your company in your employ. Having said this, there is a fine line between confidence and arrogance. Employees which exhibit excessive confidence may get ahead of themselves, or above their stations, and this will ultimately result in a poor work attitude and suffering work relationships. The key here, is to find young people who strike the right balance; exhibiting confidence while also maintaining humility.

Flexibility

Young people are relatively free of commitments and can offer your business considerable flexibility. Moreover, many millennials actually prefer a higher level of autonomy and flexibility. It is a common desire amongst people of my generation to travel overseas before having to inevitably settle down and become saddled with commitments. Consequently, if your business requires an employee to move abroad, a millennial is a likely suitable candidate. Work arrangements with young people are also generally flexible, with millennials typically having many careers and shorter lengths of employment.

There is one more reason why you should hire young people: Millennials are the future! I know that probably sounds terrifying to some, but we're not all bad. Ultimately, an aging workforce and burgeoning population of retirees will require as many young people to be working as possible. The quality of your retirement may well depend on millennials getting into the workforce now.

To young people, be open, honest and frank about the differences between generations. See them as selling points, not handicaps. Capitalise on your strengths but stay humble and don't be too lazy!

For more information, contact me (marketing@morganconsulting.com.au)