What do Millennials want in communication from their Managers? Evidence from the latest research Wayne Smith, Ph.D. Department of Management CSU Northridge ws@csun.edu

Who do Millennials think are Leaders (they want them to be all of them)? Archetype Conceptualization Mentor An empathetic advocate, professional, and personal guide Teacher Seen as a traditional educator who provides role-testing episodes, clear feedback, and opportunities for redemption and growth Manager A proxy organizational leadership who takes a transactional approach to leader-follower relationships Friend An approachable, peer-like manager Gatekeeper A high-status actor who is positioned to either advocate for or against an employee

What do Millennials value in Management Communication (top ten, in descending order)? Face-to-face Open, two-way communication Direct/straightforward Mentor-like Friendly Professional Personal Email/text/electronic Honest Respectful

What Management Traits encourage or discourage Millennials (top ten each, in descending order)? Lead by example Hardworking Friendly Motivating Encouraging Understanding/empathic Positive Honest Kindness Trustworthy Poor communication skills Rude Lazy Micromanager Doesn’t care Mean Superior mind-set Strict Aggressive Negative

References Adapted and excerpted from: Omilion-Hodges, L., and Sugg, C. (2018), Millennials’ Views and Expectations Regarding the Communicative and Relational Behaviors of Leaders: Exploring Young Adults’ Talk About Work, Business and Professional Quarterly, Nov.