By Dolores Fridge, March guest blogger
I realize that young people coming into the workplace have lived such a different life than me, as an African-American woman growing up in the 50s. My parents emphasized education and self discipline as the path to a better life. The so-called millennials have grown up in a world of privilege and global exposure. They have great expectations for their future and little patience for our stories and history. As a result they want what they feel they should have RIGHT NOW. This creates a chasm between my generation and theirs.
Young people are accustomed to immediate information and connections to their friends. They are loyal and share everything that happens to them. They use the Internet and cell phones like we used paper and pencils. This results in their ability to create bonds with each other that can be both positive and negative. It increases the possibility that invalid information is spread to hundreds of their peers instantly and that "group think" manifests itself quickly across the nation. Or they post cell phone pictures of themselves that can be viewed by anyone — including future employers.
I remember the elders in my life who told us stories based on their personal history. I also remember thinking "who cares!" Well the wisdom in their stories has served me well over the years. I have found that what you do not know can harm you and that negative information can cloud both your will and desired results.
When it comes to helping kids succeed in college and the workforce, I'm concerned that they're not listening. We must find ways to pass on our lessons learned to those less experienced in such a way that their lives can be enriched and their "group think" can be positive and supportive for their journey through life.
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