I recently met with a local college dean who asked me if I had any idea what motivates students as they enter the working world; what makes them tick?  He told me that even his kids were a mystery to him.

Why is it so different now and what can parents do about it?

First, the term fulfillment had drastically changed.  When we graduated, we wanted fulfillment but that word meant a steady paycheck, a good training program and room for advancement (in say 18-24 months.)  Today, fulfillment means making an impact quickly, expressing ideas and being heard. 

We fit work around our personal lives; their personal lives come first.  We were looking for money; they are not motivated by money in the traditional sense.   Instead, money means respect.  In fact, if a young professional is given a raise without more responsibility, the raise means nothing and they may jump ship.

What can a parent do?  First, recognize that they will work hard of it is something they are passionate about.  Help them find their passions.  Encourage them to take a risk- this is the time for it.  Help them develop their skills in any way they can, be it volunteer work, paid work or internships.  They can use those skills in many different ways over the course of their professional lives.

Finally, rest assured that as they move through adulthood and want to start a family or buy a house, their needs and values will most likely change.  They may end up choosing a more traditional route or they may find success in ways we have yet to imagine.