Millennials (those born between 1981 and 1996) are quickly becoming known as “Generation Burnout” … and not for the reasons some might think.
Often, Millennials are dubbed the “entitled generation,” or the generation that is very demanding but doesn’t have a strong work ethic. However, research is beginning to tell a different story.
According to Gallup research, nearly 3 in 10 Millennials are “very often” or “always” burned out at work, and about 7 in 10 Millennials experience at least “some” burnout. Below are some of the reasons why.
They’re Bored
Around 55% of Millennials are bored and disengaged at work, more so than any other generation inside the current workplace. They aren’t challenged enough and are consumed with repetitive tasks. And because they aren’t engaged in meaningful work, they are becoming burned out.
One seminal study revealed a correlation between boredom and burnout, and another study proved that when individuals aren’t learning or stimulated, their judgment, goal-directed planning, risk assessment, focus, and control over their emotions suffer.
They’re Working Longer Hours and Don’t Take Time Off
Millennials are now the largest generation inside the workforce, according to Pew Research, and they’re working longer hours. In fact, additional research reveals that they are workaholics.
They are constantly checking e-mail, checking their mobile devices, and staying connected to their workplaces—even when they’re socializing or “networking.” And they tend to be proud of working longer hours, with their “hustle” hashtags and workaholic cultures.
Millennials even admit to feeling ashamed of and guilty for taking any time off, even paid time off. They want to show “complete dedication” to their jobs and that they aren’t replaceable. They also don’t want to be overlooked for raises or promotions.
So now, the average workweek is well over 47 hours and has increased the prevalence of the “work martyr” across current workplaces—workers who are overworked, exhausted, disengaged, unhappy, bored, stressed, and burned out.
They Don’t Have Meaningful Career Paths
More than any other generation, Millennials want to have meaningful career paths, not just collect a paycheck.. They value meaningful career paths more than routine promotions and bumps in compensation, and they get burned out when they don’t see value in their day-to-day work.
For details on how you can set your employees up with meaningful career paths, read “Helping Your Employees Build a Long-Term Career Path.”
As you manage and train Millennials, keep the above research in mind, and stay tuned for tomorrow’s post for information about what you can do about your burned-out Millennial employees.