Millennials are the hardest bunch to please in the workforce. For small business owners such as myself, it has been a tricky process in figuring out how exactly to engage them in the right way.
Here are some of the methods that have worked for me when it comes to attracting millenials to work for my company!
1. Show Millennials Progression
Millennials are less likely to be committed to one company than previous generations. This means that it is likely that they will move on to a different company within a few years.
It is important to be clear with them by giving productive feedback. This sort of validation helps them feel acknowledged.
Furthermore, also be clear on how improving in certain areas will help them progress. If a millennial feels like there is no room to move forward, they are likely to look for opportunities elsewhere.
2. Flexible Work Environments [restrict]
Millennials have grown up in a world that is fast-paced. There is a constant feeling that they are about to run out of time. Because of this, work-life balance is incredibly important to them. If flexibility is part of your company’s policy, then millennials are more likely to be satisfied with their work.
As an employer, I can understand that there is a need to be in control and make sure your employees are getting their work done. I have found that millennials are unappreciative of this method. In fact, they are much more likely to hit their goals and perform better when given more freedom.
3. Peer Recognition
Millennials were raised in an age where they were able to gain recognition from their peers on social media. Because of this, they are always requiring validation from others.
Use this to your advantage when interacting with your younger staff members. A pat on the back or a little note tends to work wonders in encouraging their productivity.
The best part of it all? It costs next to nothing to make your staff feel a little better about their working environment!
4. Social Media Incentives
As mentioned before, millennials were raised in the age of social media. There’s nothing they love more than the ability to share their experiences on one of the platforms. You’ll hear echoes of “do it for the ‘gram” being uttered as they take to some ridiculous pose to get a photo. What this means is offering them incentives that they can share on social media!
Organise fun events such as an office-outing or a team-building weekend where they can hangout casually and take their time to update their social media accounts.
When it’s all said and done, we can’t deny that millennials tend to be busy bees in the work environment.
Their capacity for getting work done is impressive, but their inability to stay in one place for long can be frustrating to members of previous generations. However, accommodate their needs and you will have some of the best workers you’ve come to know!
Actionable Takeaway:
As small business owners it’s important that we take time to engage with our employees. Millennials are known for not being a fearful bunch and are known to enjoy engaging with their superiors.
Incorporate some down-time into your working schedule on quiet days. This will allow you to bond with your staff. Providing a sense of belonging for your millennial employees at work will make them feel encouraged and motivated to achieve more for your business.
[/restrict]