The millennial generation has become a deadbeat at work, with a majority "checked out" and 16 percent are so disengaged that they are actually doing damage to their employer, according to a comprehensive Gallup survey of those born between 1980 and 1996.

"The millennial workforce is predominantly 'checked out,' not putting energy or passion into their jobs. They are indifferent about work and show up just to put in their hours," said the survey of the 73-million strong group.



It described the generation as the one that will change American society most, pushing more and more high-tech changes. But it also said that most don't care much about their current job and half are already looking for their next job.

For those with jobs, just 29 percent are "engaged," the lowest in decades. Gallup described engaged as "emotionally and behaviorally connected to their job and company."

Gallup said another 55 percent are not engaged, and "16 percent of millennials are actively disengaged, meaning they are more or less out to do damage to their company."



The survey company also didn't place all the blame on the younger workers, noting that companies often don't offer much. And other reports have showed that many millennials are being forced to take jobs they don't really want or didn't go to school for.

Said Gallup:

"Often, millennials are characterized as entitled job-hoppers, but the reality is that 55% of this group is not engaged at work. They feel indifferent about their job and company ― and indifferent and entitled are not synonymous. Many millennials likely don't want to switch jobs, but their companies are not giving them compelling reasons to stay. When they see what appears to be a better opportunity, they have every incentive to take it. While millennials can come across as wanting more and more, the reality is that they just want a job that feels worthwhile ― and they will keep looking until they find it."

Paul Bedard, the Washington Examiner's "Washington Secrets" columnist, can be contacted at pbedard@washingtonexaminer.com