Statistics show that Generation Y (born 1977-1997, also known as “Millennials”) has different expectations and values for their workplace than previous generations. As a small business owner and employer, you need to understand what motivates members of this generation in order to attract them to work for you. Whether you like it or not, Millennials are the future of your workplace.
Offer flexibility. While Millennials value high starting salaries and financial security, they also value flexibility in their work schedule and benefits. According to statistics, about 85% of Gen Y members want to spend 30-70% of their time working from home. In order to attract top talent from Generation Y, you need to look into what types of flexibility your company is able to provide.
Utilize technology and social media as a recruiting tool. Millennials grew up in the era of evolving technology, usually being the first ones to try out new tools. Since social media and the Internet is where they spend most of their time, you need to connect with them there.
Write great job descriptions to find your best fit. With the boom of social media, employers are now feeling the pressure of being more transparent. Millennials will expect this transparency in your job descriptions—they want to know exactly the type of job they’re applying for and if they’re qualified.
Develop onboarding programs. This generation grew up with a lot of guidance and direction from their parents and teachers – and they’ll expect that same mentality in the workplace. Create onboarding programs for your new hires to teach them about your company, their position and any resources they’ll need to succeed on the job. This will not only attract them to your company, but also keep them there longer than if they did not receive proper training.
Be their mentor. When asked about their ideal work environment, Millennials #1 request was working with a manager they can respect and learn from. While they may require more guidance than previous generations, Millennials have fewer boundaries between work and life—making them loyal, diligent employees.
For more information on Generation Y in the workplace, download an infographic loaded with statistics here.
Do you currently have Millennials in your workplace? What are some observations you’ve made about this generation?
Author:
Heather R. Huhman is a career expert and founder & president of Come Recommended, a career and workplace education and consulting firm specializing in young professionals. She is also the author of #ENTRYLEVELtweet: Taking Your Career from Classroom to Cubicle (2010), national entry-level careers columnist for Examiner.com and blogs about career advice at HeatherHuhman.com. Follow her on Twitter at @heatherhuhman.
