Millennials have been heralded as the uniquely diverse, highly educated, politically independent social media marvels.

But a new poll finds many of them would also just like a good job at an established business with some vacation time.

The survey conducted by the Harvard University’s Institute of Politics in collaboration with The Washington Post also shows Americans ages 18 to 29 are less-than-impressed with technological wonders and business giants today, divided on the virtue of government regulations and just as worried about their digital data being swallowed by tech companies as the federal government.

Perhaps most striking, only about one-third of Americans ages 18 to 29 say starting their own businesses is “one of the most important” or “very important” in their work life. Far more, 53 percent, say simply having a stable job is a very important goal, even if it is less exciting.

And still more say achieving success in a high-paying career is important or having a job that benefits society is important to them. Having enough time to spend with family and friends tops the list of qualities with 85 percent saying it is very important.

Younger Americans also prefer a more-traditional work arrangement. Half of them say they’d rather to work for a business, compared with 22 percent seeking nonprofit work and 17 percent eyeing government employment. And among those aiming for company work, over half say they prefer joining an established company (54 percent) over a younger company (16 percent) or starting their own business (29 percent).

Millennials’ desire for more stable jobs aligns with significant challenges they’ve faced early in their careers. The unemployment rate among 18 to 34 year-olds grew to over 12 percent in 2010, leading many to delay living independently or get married. While they are the best-educated generation, many are yoked to significant college debt perhaps deterring future financial risks.

The relatively low ambitions to start a new business follow a significant drop in entrepreneurial activity among younger Americans since 2011, according to an analysis of federal data by the nonpartisan Kauffman Foundation earlier this year. Economic hardships are the biggest likely culprit, overriding other factors such as higher education which give Millennials advantages in starting businesses.

Copy the Story Link

Only subscribers are eligible to post comments. Please subscribe or login first for digital access. Here’s why.

Use the form below to reset your password. When you've submitted your account email, we will send an email with a reset code.