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The Millenial generation (ages 18-29) holds different beliefs about traditional family structure than any generation before them.  They are less likely than older generations to link marriage with parenthood and of the two, they value parenthood over marriage. 

A 2010 Pew Research Center attitudinal survey found that 52% of Millennials say being a good parent is "one of the most important things" in life.  By contrast, just 30% say the same about having a successful marriage. 

Millennials are also less likely than older adults to say that a child needs a home with a married father and mother to grow up happily.  While 70% say they still want to marry, more than four-in-ten (44%) think that the institution of marriage is becoming obsolete.

With their generation getting married later than ever before, they are less likely to believe that single parenthood and unmarried couple parenthood are bad for society.  In fact, over half (51%) of all births among Millenials in 2008 were to unwed mothers.

With Millenials, also known as Gen Y , now representing 75 million Americans, these changing beliefs will inevitably affect the workforce.  Single parents may be looking for more flexibility while unwed adults may have more time and energy to focus on work and continued learning. 

This generation is clearly more likely than those before it to question the status quo.  The workplace of today must be prepared for these new ideas and ways of thinking.  As more Baby Boomers retire and more Gen Y’s enter, corporate cultures will be challenged and flexibility is needed.  Are you ready?  What will your organization do to ensure that generational differences are respected and valued?