Jump off a cliff.

The next generation doesn’t believe that the way things are, is the way things have to be. They see the end of the road as an opportunity to change course, not a forced retreat. When they get to the edge of the cliff, they’re willing to jump, if they think that opportunity for change lies on the other side.

Millennials as they are known, believe the world to be their canvas. To right the wrongs of the previous generations. To make a difference in systems of injustice. To shape their future in a grand experiment of social collaboration and horizontal leadership.

Deloitte Consulting put out a Millennial Fact Sheet a while back that sheds some light on the characteristics of the next generation. Here’s an excerpt on how Millennials integrate into the workplace:

Millennials at work…
• Work well with friends and on teams
• Collaborative, resourceful, innovative thinkers
• Love a challenge
• Seek to make a difference
• Want to produce something worthwhile
• Desire to be a hero
• Impatient
• Comfortable with speed and change
• Thrive on flexibility and space to explore
• Partner well with mentors
• Value guidance
• Expect respect

What are you doing to capture and capitalize on the enthusiasm of the next generation? I know I need to do more because this generation is determined not to have their lives determined by what came before them.

We need to harness their energy, engage their collaborative spirit, and draw out the leadership qualities of those we lead. I’m being challenged to think about my role in fostering Generation Next, because they seem to want change more than my own generation.