Unfairly Labeled

Chapter 7

Collaborative Teamwork

In this chapter we will look at stereotypes associated with teamwork and collaboration as it pertains to millennials and the other generations. First, we will meet Lorraine, the epitome of the stereotypical millennial. Then, we will look at the origin of this generalized stereotype and examine the flawed research that supports it. Finally, we will provide some key tips on creating a collaborative team while avoiding the stigma of generational stereotyping.

The Stereotype

Lorraine represents one of the most pervasive myths in the research literature. She is a millennial with an almost insatiable need to collaborate. Her ideal workplace is a synergistic swarm of cyber-connected kids. This need is fueled by the all-encompassing presence of game technology in her life, as well as her addiction to sharing personal information on the web. Since she spent her formative years highly involved with all forms of social media, she wants to continue constant interaction even in her workplace.

Before looking into the research in order to refute this myth, I will delineate some of the false conclusions that have been drawn from false assumptions:

• Since they have long operated in a world of virtual reality games, like World of Warcraft, the younger generations are much more adept than their elders at collaborating in worlds that transcend time, space, and language.
• Since millennials grew up in the information-sharing age, they are thought to be more vulnerable ...