Ask Sandi

Lately I have been doing research on the generational workforce. There are several generations now working together and also competing against each other for jobs.

The highest area of unemployment for the generational workforce is falling to millennials. These are our youngest working generation from 18-31 years in age (depending on which source you look at).

The challenges for the millennial generation are varied. They include the following observations:

Millennials lack practical experience. Approximately 53 percent of new college graduates are unemployed or not employed in their field of study. They are either unemployed or under-employed.

Many are overqualified for the jobs they do have. Fifty-two percent of millennials who have a college degree are working in jobs that do not require a degree. This is according to the 2011 current population survey done by Northeastern University.

They are not prepared for the workforce. According to a study done by Adecco Staffing in 2012 of 500 employers, 66 percent of the people they see are not prepared for the interview. The study goes further to say that 8 percent of college grads brought their parents to interviews.

So what is a millennial to do?

Internships can be a path into a job.

According to NACE, internships can increase the likelihood of landing a job by up to 60 percent.

Use your parents’ network. My first job out of college was through a referral from my dad. Your parents may have connections that can help to open doors for you. Don’t be afraid to leverage connections!

Use technology. This is one area millennials are better at than the rest of us. Online applications are not as daunting and social media is the norm.

While millennials may have to start in an entry-level position below their skill level, there is no reason to stay stuck there forever. Look for opportunities to learn more and to advance. Volunteering and internships can lead to jobs. There are also great service opportunities with AmeriCorps and Public Allies that can gain you some hands-on experience.

We have recently hired several millennials and I am thrilled with their skills, level of commitment, and enthusiasm for the job.

Please send any questions you have regarding employment to:

[email protected]

Fax: 407-260-2949

Mail: Ask Sandi C/O Christian HELP

450 Seminola Blvd, Casselberry, FL 32707

Our goal is to answer many of the questions you may have about your employment search, resumes, networking, promotion opportunities, and other employment related questions you may have.

Note to employers: If you email your job leads to [email protected], we will share your job openings with Christian HELP clients.

Until next time-

Sandi

Sandi Vidal is the executive director for Christian HELP and the Central Florida Employment Council. She has more than 15 years of recruiting and human resources experience. Visit the website at cfec.org