For wanting everything and wanting it now. 

Any conference, TED talk or the like, relating to the future or millennials’ behaviour instantly refers to the number of jobs the average millennial will hold.

That number fluctuates from six careers to 15 jobs.

It’s important to note there is a difference between careers and jobs – jobs can be within one company, whereas careers are often different industries.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics, in the United States, followed baby boomers from the start of their careers to now. 

The results showed people hold about 11.7 jobs between the age of 18 through to 48. Less than 10 per cent hold zero to four jobs and 27 per cent of baby boomers would hold 15 jobs or more.

Other studies – that have been commissioned by Forbes magazine, Deloitte, Linkedin and more – suggest people are searching for flexibility, innovation and embracing technology in their jobs. 

The studies also share the theme that diversity and flexibility are directly connected to loyalty.

Another study by EY determined that by 2025, 75 per cent of the global workforce will be made up of millennials.

What can be taken from all of the above and all the studies you read is that it comes back to values. 

Not much has changed according to behaviour, but the reasons or impact is changing. The statistics show baby boomers had just as many jobs as the latest generation. The new generation now wants to support cause-related volunteer projects, to travel with a purpose, to have the flexibility to work from home or from the cafe.

Arguments against flexibility question trust. However, in the Deloitte report, Adam Henderson said: “If you can’t trust your employees to work flexibly, why hire them in the first place?”

The number of jobs held is actually back to the future. If we continue to focus on values and not stereotypes, that future will be bright.