In the United States, nearly 627,000 businesses start up every year, with millennials comprising the majority. However, it’s essential to note that millennial entrepreneurs are not merely young individuals but those born between 1981 and 1996, typically representing those who have been in the workforce for a while. Although individuals out of college and in the prime of their careers may fall into this age bracket, they are commonly referred to as Gen Z.
One significant disparity between millennial entrepreneurs and their older counterparts lies in their upbringing amidst technology. This fundamental difference leads to various distinctions. Here’s why millennial entrepreneurs stand out from those who came before them.
1. Tech Savvy Millennials:
Growing up in an era dominated by technology, most millennials were exposed to computers from an early age, making them adept at adapting to evolving entrepreneurial practices. The emergence of social media during their college years positioned them as early adopters, successfully incorporating these platforms into their business strategies. Contrastingly, their predecessors lacked significant exposure to technology, arguably rendering millennials more productive and innovative.
2. Marketing Know-How:
Active engagement with social media platforms equips millennials with foundational marketing knowledge, as they are often the target audience for social media advertisements. Additionally, their firsthand experience with technological advancements enables them to discern effective marketing tools, setting them apart from previous generations.
3. Flexibility:
Embracing technological advancements, millennials recognize the value of flexibility in conducting business. They leverage new advertising tools and embrace remote work, conducting meetings and discussions virtually. This flexibility extends to staffing preferences, with many opting for remote work arrangements, a departure from the paperwork-heavy and in-person-centric practices of their predecessors.
4. Purposeful Work:
Driven by a desire to make a meaningful impact, millennials prioritize work that aligns with their values. This sense of purpose permeates their business practices, often reflected in organizational initiatives aimed at community engagement, charity work, and environmental stewardship. Many startups incorporate codes of conduct to promote ethical practices, reflecting millennials’ commitment to purpose-driven work.
5. Work-Life Balance:
Unlike previous generations, millennials prioritize work-life balance, eschewing the notion of overwork in favor of holistic living. Flexible working hours afford them time for personal pursuits, while organizational initiatives, such as team-building activities and health checkups, underscore the importance of employee well-being.
In conclusion, the significant shift in entrepreneurial approaches between millennials and their predecessors stems from evolving trends and technological advancements.
Looking for CIO coaching? Share your thoughts on other ways millennial entrepreneurs differ from previous generations in the comments below!