Millennials—generally defined as the generation born between 1981-1997—have defined themselves as a distinct population that has different expectations in the workplace. As millennials currently represent the largest segment of the workforce, at nearly three times the size of the preceding generation, it is incumbent upon seasoned professionals to ensure to acclimate millennials to our workplaces. We are all familiar with the stereotypes of millennials—that their work ethic is lacking, or that an “everybody gets a trophy” mentality has left them unprepared for the workforce. Yet these stereotypes have been consistently debunked by the accomplishments of young people across our profession (see, e.g., Lauren Stiller Rikleen, “How the 'Millennial' Generation Works,” The American Bar Association).

The decision-makers at many law firms, who tend to be older, white and male (and who may have spent their entire career at just one or two firms), can appear out-of-step with millennial employees and clients and be less responsive to their needs and motivations. How our profession adapts to millennial employees and clients is one of the largest challenges we face in the coming years.

Working With Millennials as Employees

• Flexibility.

It is no wonder why millennials are drawn to companies like Google with colorful workspaces and casual dress codes. While we cannot expect law firms to imitate Google's office, firms can offer flexibility in their workplace environments as long as productivity and client service remains constant. For example, as millennials do not rely on in-person interactions as much as older generations. They do not believe face time in an office necessarily equate to work product. Billable hours do not necessarily need to take place in the office, nor do client meetings all occur during the typical 9-to-5 schedule. Millennials enjoy being independent and are accustomed to being drawn in a myriad of directions. Hours that are customarily reserved for productivity may not appeal to millennials and flexible work arrangements may be the new norm.