In light of my post last week about the Millennial Generation, I received a few cranky e-mails grumbling that this generation expects the world to be handed to them on a silver platter, and that they’re coming into the workplace as confident know-it-alls.  Now, as a twenty-something career consultant, this isn’t the first time I’ve heard this.  But it’s such a shame that the wonderful qualities of the Millennials aren’t being appreciated because of the negativity they’re inspiring as they approach their first jobs.  So here’s some advice I hope new workers will take to heart.

• Lose the sense of entitlement.  Be a can-do, enthusiastic employee who expects to work hard for your salary and perks.  Demonstrate that you are willing to learn from any assignment, even if it’s just setting up a meeting, and that you can juggle multiple tasks without breaking a sweat. Be humble – you may be smart, but your colleagues have valuable experience that should be respected.
• Give your boss a break.  Establish a profitable relationship with her, even if you think she’s an egomaniac or psychologically disturbed.  Determine her priorities, find out what she wants from you, and think of ways to surpass her expectations. Don’t take unjust criticism personally. Sit down with her and address the conflict directly, asking her how you can improve the relationship. 
• Don’t use the megaphone right away.  Lay low in your first few weeks, and take the time to study your new company, including how people present themselves and how they work together. You might be eager to show the company what you’re made of, but the most successful employees are able to effectively assimilate into their company’s culture without making waves.

Let’s hear from some folks who have been on the job a few years – or more.  What’s your best advice for helping the Millennials establish strong reputations at work?