
Networking is the key to finding those jobs in the “hidden job market” and who should know better than the “Millennials”, the new generation born between 1980 and 1995. This is the generation that was raised on the internet. You’ll find them with both thumbs tapping on their cell phones in high school, college and even in the job market.
These young people are socially connected from the minute they wake up until they close their eyes at night. They’re on Twitter and Facebook constantly sending tweets and texts. Those still in school are finding some schools adhering to “old school” methods of no phones in class to enlightened teachers that actually promote texting in class for feedback on issues. The goal of networking is to get as many contacts as possible. This group typically has a massive network of online acquaintances.
Does this present them with a choice of where they want to work? As with the educational system employers are beginning to become more receptive to this methodology. A few employers are using Twitter to find new hires. More and more Human Resource people will eventually embrace the instant message technology.
Millennials must control their compulsive tendencies in the workplace as most employers frown upon low productivity. A survey by Salary.com said that over 50% of Millenials primary “time wasting” activity at work was texting versus only 34% for those from age 40 and over.
This generation can multi-task, save companies on miscommunication errors, and they quickly prioritize in ongoing fashion. The addiction isn’t without its downside; the more time they spend texting the lower their grade scores, they can become anxious, depressed or hostile.
Millennials can look to serve as interns in organizations to get a foothold otherwise they can always resort to volunteer work to land a job.