This document discusses stereotypes about Millennials (born 1980-early 2000s) in the workplace. While they are often labeled as "lazy, unfocused, demanding, dependent," these traits actually reflect being inexperienced rather than an entire generation. Millennials grew up with technology and expect quick responses. They value online learning over traditional classrooms. Some studies found Millennials are more materialistic and politically disengaged than previous generations. Discriminatory labels will persist due to older workers' fear of being replaced, though Millennials are increasingly taking on leadership roles.

1. Labelling Millennials: Is It Misguided and Discriminatory?
“Lazy. Unfocused. Demanding. Dependent”. If a Human Resources manager caught you calling all
senior workers this way, he or she would be outraged. Yet these terms are frequently used in
workplaces to characterize the entire generation known as Millennials (born between 1980 and the
early 2000s).
Alison Green, blogger, wrote that “most of the stereotypes people attribute to Millennials aren’t about
what generation they happen to belong to.” According to her, the traits and behaviours commonly
attributed to Millennials are about being novice—not about being born at a certain time. “This
generation is not the first group of 20-somethings who find work boring, bridle at dress codes and
office norms, or yearn to have more of a voice in office decision-making.”
Lindsey Pollak, spokeswoman for The Hartford Financial Services, agreed that Millennials are young,
inexperienced employees who, like previous generations, have basic needs such as training and
leadership development. The difference between Millennials and younger workers of decades ago is
“what kind of training Millennials want and need”. For instance, Millennials’ behaviours and values
often stem from their immersion in technology, she said. They grew up with the Internet and social
media, expecting speedy responses to their questions, and benefitting from instant interaction with
friends and co-workers. “Millennials are digital natives who value an educational experience, such as a
field trip or online class, rather than traditional in-person training in a classroom setting” she said.
Authors predict that Millennials will switch jobs frequently, holding many more jobs than older
generations because of their high expectations. Also, some studies found that Millennials are more
materialistic, more politically disengaged and less concerned about helping the world than previous
generations at the same age.
Are Labels Demoralizing?
Even if this reflects reality, it is damaging to manager-employee relations when Millennials are
referred to with unflattering terms such as “lazy,” “unfocused,” “narcissistic,” and “whiny.”
Discriminatory labels and remarks about younger workers “will always be there because of older

2. people’s fear of being replaced by younger, cheaper workers. Younger workers are seen as more tech-
savvy than older workers, for instance,”
More Millennials are taking on leadership roles in business, government, communities and culture.
Will 2015 be the year they start to be taken seriously?
A. Say whether the following statements are True (T) or False (F). Provide evidence from the text.
1. Millenials like to be told the clothes they have to wear at work.
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2. Young employees want their opinions to be listened at work.
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3. Young workers appreciate immediate answers.
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4. Millenials are interested in social issues and problems.
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B. Answer in your own words.
1. How does being a digital native affect young workers?
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2. According to the text, why will discrimination against young people at work always exist?
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C. Find synonyms in the text for the following words:
Old people or workers with
experience in a company
To take advantage from
something
To be part of a group To change from one
position to another
Inexperienced Not favourable, unpleasing
To desire A person who constantly
complains
C. Rewrite using reported speech:
1. “If I were you, I would prepare well before the interview”
He advised me______________________________________________________________________
2. “Why did you leave your last job?”
The interviewer asked her_________________________________________________________
D. Circle the odd one out:
1. a) suggested b) recommended c) asked d) boasted
2. a) later b) sugar c) arrive d) hard
3. a) choice b) chin c) church d) share
4. a) plays b) goes c) screams d) changes