5 ways to reverse mentor millennials

It’s no secret that young people are usually the first demographic to embrace new technology and media. Older communicators often struggle with changing tools, causing them to hire younger staff members to engage with the tools instead.

Social and mobile media have become critical components of the modern marketing mix. In turn, Generation X and Baby Boomer marketers and PR pros have been forced to embrace new media. Learning these tools can be difficult, but young co-workers—yes, the junior staffer hired to “handle” social media—can help.

Be smart about this. One primary characteristic of the millennial generation is a desire to be included and treated respectfully. Young workers want access to executives, and choose work environments where they can build something with them. Embracing millennials fulfills those needs and can help your older staff adjust at the same time.

In addition, young people miss the value experience brings. Reverse mentoring uses both groups’ strengths and cross pollinates them.