Dubbed as the “Job Hopping Generation”, statistics show that 60% of employed millennials are looking for the next opportunity.

Sure, millennials are known to get a bad rap in the workplace – specifically from the boomers – but we can learn so much from them. Think about it, by 2025 they will make up 75% of our workforce.

Let’s face it, millennials have pretty much changed the way we think about work. Contrary to popular belief they are level-headed when it comes to what they want from a job. They are not necessarily interested in fat, juicy paychecks; it’s more about making a difference, growing professionally, and having a healthy work/life balance.

However, this amazing generation is struggling to find work. In fact, the unemployment rates for millennials are higher than those in other demographics. Working hard and having a solid education does not necessarily lead to career success. So, was your degree and the debt you incurred a mistake? Absolutely not! Dedicating a segment of your life to intensive learning is never a waste. Think of it as an investment that will pay off eventually, very possibly in completely unexpected ways.

Uber cool companies might have glossy websites with a full three pages on how awesome their company culture is, but all the free smoothies and group skydiving are only up for grabs if you actually get the job!

Thing is, job interviews are super intimidating whether you’re 22 or 49! How you prepare for the interview and what you do afterwards is just as important as your performance inside the interview room.

We have a few strategies – millennial style:

• Do your research. This is the best way to prepare for any interview. Their website will give you insight into the company culture. Read through the press releases to know more about the company’s history and growth. Investigate any social media accounts – these include Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.
• Clean up your social media accounts. Only show what you want to be seen.
• If you’re not early, you’re late. Arrive 10 to 15 minutes early.
• Be prepared for the questions. Be ready to reveal your strengths and weaknesses. Have sensible responses to questions such as “Why did you apply for this position?” and “Why do you think you’ll be successful in this job?”
• Always ask a smart question to demonstrate that you have some knowledge of the industry and that you’re already thinking of how you can contribute to it.
• Dress to impress. If you never iron your clothes, do it for this.
• The interview begins the moment you enter the building. Ditch the headphones, lose the gum and takeout coffee, and put your phone away.
• Bring your resume in hard copy.
• Follow up. Send a thank you email the same day. If you’ve promised other information, such as references or samples of your work, be prompt in supplying them. Your note will improve the impression you left after the interview, making you stand out from other candidates.

Good luck!

Source: www.therichest.com, www.inc.com, transparency.kununu.com, www.zippia.com, careerenlightenment.com, www.talentsmart.com, www.forbes.com, www.topresume.com, www.businessinsider.com, www.careerjunction.co.za, careers.workopolis.com, college.infogeek.com, www.thebalance.com, signedlogan.com, www.macslist.org, esquire-recruiting.com