Every generation complains about the one(s) following them, and when Millennials are nipping at your heels it may seem like there’s plenty to moan about. This is the generation that got a trophy for showing up, the one which was told they were special at every turn, and were pushed through school systems regardless of whether they could read, write, or do simple math. Plus, many of them graduated during the Great Recession and got a shock when they realized their degree might be relatively worthless.
When it comes to engaging customers, some Millennials can struggle when they’re trying to communicate with anyone outside their own generation. They may be brilliant at developing websites and intuiting what an online presence needs, but what about some classic approaches to starting a business? There are quite a few things Millennials can learn from older generations, and they may want to consider it worth their while to adopt these traditional entrepreneurial approaches:
1. How to network (in person)
Millennials can fail at networking both online and in person. They’re used to text speak (and some may say expecting things to fall in their favor.) It’s most likely going to be a younger person tapping someone on LinkedIn in with, “You hiring?” Someone from an older generation just wouldn't consider this approach. They can also be at a loss when at a conference and unable to hide behind a screen. Communication is a pillar for every entrepreneur, including when they're in person as well as in the digital world. Something like a Toastmaster’s session can be extremely helpful.
2. Patience
Millennials grew up in an era of instant gratification, and probably can’t recall a time without the internet. However, things will rarely work on your schedule as an entrepreneur, so patience can be a lifesaver. Maybe you’re dealing with a client in another part of the world where it’s typical to get a response after a couple of days. Millennials learned to believe they can control everything. Perhaps that launch date just isn’t going to happen due to something beyond your control. Learning how to wait for things that are not within your control-without stress-is critical.
3. How to prioritize
When did multi-tasking become the ultimate skill, especially when recent studies show almost nobody can do it? Being able to juggle projects has always been a necessity, especially for entrepreneurs, but so was taking a triage approach. Millennials feel like they need to do it all right now (there’s that instant gratification again) which can lead to running in circles and not being able to finish some things and not being able to doing everything well. There’s a difference between having a full plate and trying to shove the whole buffet in your mouth at once.
4. How to utilize technology less
Yes, there are many great things technology can let entrepreneurs do, especially for an online business. However, if your whole operation shuts down and goes into panic mode because your web host scheduled routine maintenance, you have a problem. Having SOPs for every tech-laden situation and being able to continue working in some capacity no matter what, is important. You shouldn’t have to send your whole startup team home just because the Wi-Fi goes down.
5. Compartmentalization
Blame the era of the digital office, but now it’s nearly impossible not to take work home with you. You’re getting work emails sent to your phone at midnight, you’re seeing notifications from your startup’s Facebook page, and a client that’s a few hours behind you just sent you a text. Millennials might not know any different, but this kind of 24/7 environment is unhealthy. Carving out time for other things (and just other things) should be a priority.
Unfortunately, many startups are filled with all Millennials and are lacking in diversity. See what you can learn from those who have been there done that. They can point out potholes you may otherwise miss.