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

2. 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

3. 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
/text/electronic
Honest
Respectful

4. 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

5. 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.