20 Questions

Questions to Ask a Millennial

Thoughtful questions to ask millennials that demonstrate your interest in their perspective, experiences, and unique insights while building meaningful connections across generational differences.

1

What's the most significant change you've witnessed in technology during your lifetime?

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Why this works

This question acknowledges millennials' unique position as digital natives who have experienced rapid technological change, allowing them to share their perspective on how technology has shaped their world.

2

How do you balance your work life with your personal life, and what does work-life balance mean to you?

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Why this works

Millennials are known for prioritizing work-life balance, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their approach to managing these important aspects of life.

3

What's something you're passionate about that you think older generations might not understand?

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Why this works

This question creates a safe space for millennials to share their interests and perspectives while acknowledging that generational differences exist in a respectful way.

4

How do you approach learning new skills or staying current with trends in your field?

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Why this works

Millennials are known for their adaptability and continuous learning mindset, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their approach to professional development.

5

What's your perspective on the gig economy and alternative work arrangements?

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Why this works

This question acknowledges millennials' experience with non-traditional work arrangements and shows you're interested in understanding their views on modern work structures.

6

How do you use social media, and what role does it play in your personal and professional life?

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Why this works

Millennials are the first generation to grow up with social media, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their relationship with these platforms.

7

What's something you wish you could change about the current job market or workplace culture?

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Why this works

This question invites millennials to share their thoughts on workplace issues and shows you're interested in understanding their perspective on professional challenges.

8

How do you approach financial planning and saving, especially given the economic challenges your generation has faced?

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Why this works

This question acknowledges the unique financial challenges millennials have faced and shows you're interested in understanding their approach to money management.

9

What's your take on remote work and flexible work arrangements?

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Why this works

Millennials have been at the forefront of advocating for flexible work arrangements, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their views on modern work practices.

10

How do you stay informed about current events and news, and what sources do you trust?

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Why this works

This question explores how millennials consume information and shows you're interested in understanding their approach to staying informed in the digital age.

11

What's something you're optimistic about regarding the future, and what concerns you most?

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Why this works

This question invites millennials to share their hopes and fears about the future, showing you're interested in understanding their perspective on what lies ahead.

12

How do you approach sustainability and environmental issues in your daily life?

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Why this works

Millennials are known for their environmental consciousness, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their approach to sustainability and environmental responsibility.

13

What's your experience with student debt, and how has it affected your life choices?

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Why this works

This question acknowledges the significant impact of student debt on millennials and shows you're interested in understanding how it has shaped their decisions and opportunities.

14

How do you approach relationships and dating in the digital age?

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Why this works

This question explores how millennials navigate relationships in a world where technology plays a significant role, showing you're interested in understanding their approach to modern romance.

15

What's something you've learned from older generations that you value most?

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Why this works

This question shows you're interested in understanding the positive aspects of intergenerational relationships and what millennials appreciate about older generations.

16

How do you approach mental health and well-being, and what resources do you find most helpful?

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Why this works

Millennials are known for being more open about mental health, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their approach to well-being and self-care.

17

What's your perspective on homeownership and the housing market?

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Why this works

This question acknowledges the challenges millennials face in the housing market and shows you're interested in understanding their views on homeownership and real estate.

18

How do you approach career changes and professional pivots?

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Why this works

Millennials are known for their willingness to change careers and pursue new opportunities, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their approach to professional growth.

19

What's something you're proud of that you've accomplished despite the challenges your generation has faced?

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Why this works

This question invites millennials to share their achievements and shows you're interested in understanding their resilience and success in the face of generational challenges.

20

How do you approach giving back to your community and making a positive impact?

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Why this works

Millennials are known for their desire to make a positive impact, so this question shows you're interested in understanding their approach to community involvement and social responsibility.

Best Practices for Intergenerational Conversations

Expert tips and techniques for getting the most out of these questions.

Best Practices

Be Respectful and Open-Minded

Approach conversations with millennials with respect for their experiences and perspectives. Be open to learning about their unique viewpoint and the challenges they've faced.

Listen Without Judgment

When millennials share their experiences and perspectives, listen with an open heart and mind. Avoid judging or dismissing their views based on generational stereotypes.

Share Your Own Experiences

While listening is important, sharing your own experiences can create a deeper connection and more meaningful conversation across generational lines.

Question Sequences

The Technology-Focused Sequence

1
Start with: "What's the most significant change you've witnessed in technology during your lifetime?"
2
Follow with: "How do you use social media, and what role does it play in your personal and professional life?"
3
Deepen with: "How do you stay informed about current events and news, and what sources do you trust?"

The Work-Life Balance Sequence

1
Start with: "How do you balance your work life with your personal life, and what does work-life balance mean to you?"
2
Follow with: "What's your take on remote work and flexible work arrangements?"
3
Deepen with: "How do you approach career changes and professional pivots?"

Common Pitfalls

Don't Rely on Stereotypes

Avoid asking questions based on generational stereotypes. Focus on understanding the individual's unique experiences and perspectives rather than making assumptions.

Don't Dismiss Their Experiences

Even if you don't share their experiences, don't dismiss or minimize their perspective. Show respect for their journey and understanding.

Don't Ask Questions That Are Too Personal Too Soon

Some topics, like financial struggles or personal challenges, can be sensitive. Build trust and rapport before asking very personal questions.

Conversation Templates

The Technology Explorer

1
Step 1: Start with: "What's the most significant change you've witnessed in technology during your lifetime?"
2
Step 2: Follow with: "How do you use social media, and what role does it play in your personal and professional life?"
3
Step 3: Deepen with: "How do you stay informed about current events and news, and what sources do you trust?"

The Work-Life Balancer

1
Step 1: Start with: "How do you balance your work life with your personal life, and what does work-life balance mean to you?"
2
Step 2: Follow with: "What's your take on remote work and flexible work arrangements?"
3
Step 3: Deepen with: "How do you approach career changes and professional pivots?"

Further Reading

"The Art of Conversation" by Catherine Blyth
"How to Win Friends and Influence People" by Dale Carnegie
"The Charisma Myth" by Olivia Fox Cabane
"Never Split the Difference" by Chris Voss

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