Christie Garton

Channel their passion and desire for meaningful work into projects that give them real opportunities to gain leadership experience.

Learning the habits, interests and personality traits of this vibrant demographic will grow your brand.

The generation just now graduating high school is similar to but distinct from their millennial older siblings.

Women need experiences, resources and support to take a seat at the table.

Hint: Appeal to their heightened sense of adventure -- and their desire to be trendsetters.

An increasing number of companies are carving out a place in the market by appealing to the desire of customers to do good. Don't underestimate how competitive it can be.

Identify enthusiastic young customers, make them experts, watch them show off their knowledge on social media.

Since both consumers and energetic young employees prefer companies dedicated to social good, philanthropy is a viable business strategy.

Young consumers have distinct patterns for developing brand loyalty, beginning when the product is just somebody's good idea.

The preference of young consumers for products linked to charities they support is so strong it is altering marketing strategies.

For marketers looking to get their hands on millennials, they need to be smart about how to approach this generation.

If you're looking to get into the mind of the millennial consumer, don't forget this simple truth: not all millennials are alike, especially when it comes to the sexes.

The bottom line: When it comes to reaching millennial consumers, don't forget the parents – especially mom.