Misunderstanding Military Millennials - The Military Leader

Nothing resonated more with me than the following line: "The most misunderstood characteristic of millennials is the question they commonly ask, “Why?” The word why can cause Generation X leaders to leap out of their chairs and harken back to the days when you didn’t ask that question and just did as you were told."

Very true statement. My first experience leading millennials was in 2009 and the "why?" was the most irritating question they ever asked. At first my initial answer was "Because I am telling you to do it." It wasn't until later that I learned how to handle the question "Why?" Had I read this article earlier in my career I may have adjusted my leadership style differently. Now, as an experienced NCO, I see how different our generations can be and why it is important to "tap into" the younger generations different life experiences to further the future of the US Military.

Very well written article.

Interesting... the Millennials Remind Me a lot of the "Gen-Xers" of 25-30 years ago...

Include this in all Leadership schools curriculum!