Do You Speak Like a Millennial? Here’s How to Tell

We have all heard the term “millennial” and know that it is the term typically used to describe individuals born between the early 1980’s and mid 1990’s.  Individuals born during this time often have some unique styles of speaking. 
 
Do you speak like a millennial?  Here are a few ways to tell:
 
You might sound like a millennial if:

• You speak with a gradually rising pitch, both when pausing and when ending sentences.  This makes it sound like you are asking questions, rather than speaking in sentences. It’s, “I go to work every day” and NOT “I go to work every day?”
• You use the word “like” often when you speak.  It’s like you might use it, like, all the time, so it sounds like it might be, like, your favorite word!
• You speak very quickly. Young adults seem to want to get everything they want to say out as quickly as possible.  We usually associate a very fast pace with someone who is young and inexperienced.  Most seasoned professionals speak more slowly and are viewed as more experienced, confident and convincing. If you want people to take you seriously, speak more slowly.
• You use the word “dude” for everyone, even in a professional setting.  This is a "no-no" in the professional business world because it is too informal and sounds unprofessional.  So, dude, don’t use that word at work, especially with leadership.
• You say, “I know, right?” too often.  Yes, millennials are famous for saying this when someone says something that they agree with.  For example, if someone says, “You’re a great worker”, the millennial might say, “I know, right?” to agree with you. 

 
So, dude, speak more slowly to sound experienced and, like, end your sentences with a downward pitch so people don’t think you are asking questions or pausing all the time.  At work, be as professional as possible, and you will quickly be viewed as a person who takes their work seriously. I know, right?