This post was written by Lucas Parker and is shared here with permission.
Over the last couple of years, the Millennial workforce has taken over all around the world, since the older generations have started retiring at a faster pace. So, there is no denying the influence the Millennials have on the workspace, and companies need to adapt themselves to the new situation. This can be daunting at times since Millennials have their unique needs and wants, that might be unusual to someone from an older generation. However, changes are inevitable, if you’re going to have a happy and productive workforce and to succeed on the market. Here are some things you could do to make your company more attractive to Millennials:
Having a clear mission
The most common thing in Millennial workers is that they desire to have a sense of purpose in their everyday job, and they respond the best to a surrounding where everyone knows what they are doing and why. Their goal is not to work for a company that doesn’t have its mission and vision clearly stated and visible. If the company has clear goals, it will be much easier for them to connect to it, and to stay motivated. Being aware that a company has strong opinions and ethics will, in turn, make the workforce more loyal to the cause, leading to higher productivity and appreciation. Therefore, it is the company’s responsibility to talk about its goals and to nurture the atmosphere of working together to meet those goals.
Allow flexible hours
The millennial workforce is aware of the importance of work-life balance, and they usually require companies to accommodate their needs. Gone are the days where employees were willing to sacrifice their own lives to finish the tasks that were given to them. So, staying longer or coming earlier to catch up work is no longer a viable option. The best way to keep Millennials motivated is to allow flexible working hours, which means giving a chance to employees to come in at work when they want, all within reasonable boundaries. Thus, you could say that coming to work is possible anywhere from 7 AM to 11 AM. The important thing is that their tasks are finished at the end of the day. You’ll be surprised how much more motivated workers are when they start their workday when it best suits them!
Nurture diversity
Diversity in a business environment has never been more critical than today, and Millennials are a generation that demands it. A company that fosters diversity not only stands better chances of being profitable, but it also sends the message of trust and responsibility. Moreover, these companies have more success in attracting the right employees they need. Millennials are aware of the fact that diversity and inclusion can lead only to good things, like the birth of new ideas and perspectives. More often than not, companies cannot find suitable candidates in their surroundings. That’s why it is essential to try to attract the best, most skilled employees who could bring a new dimension to the company, even if they are from a foreign country. However, immigration lawyers Parramatta suggest that this is not an easy process, as laws and regulations change by the minute. Nevertheless, in the end, it will all be worth it, when you find an employee whose skills and traits perfectly match your company!
Casual workspace
Formal business environments are a thing of the past, at least when it comes to younger generations. They need to have certain choices and amenities available to them, that were once inconceivable. So, what does this mean? Millennials usually prefer wearing casual, non-formal outfit, having a place to work out in the company and bringing in family members or pets, which can often seem unreasonable to older generations. However, since these are rather important things for Millennials, it is up to the owner or the management to try to make at least some of these things available. A happy employee is a productive employee!
Welcome technology in
The Millennials are a generation that loves technology, and cannot imagine their lives without it. The majority of them can’t even remember the times when there was no internet and when cellphones weren’t used. Some people even question if this is a bad thing or not. When it comes to employment, it doesn’t have to be a negative occurrence at all. Since they are so inclined to technology, they are more likely to accept any changes and to adapt to them. It will be much easier for the management to introduce new workflow and approaches, without any resistance. Millennials, in general, have a positive attitude towards technology, as they are strongly aware of the benefits it can bring them when it comes to solving problems, getting new ideas and advancing in their jobs. Thus, it is necessary to create an environment that will encourage the use of technology.
Remote working
Remote working is usually associated with freelancing. However, Millennials managed to change that perception! Since flexibility and independence is of such importance to them, it is only natural that they desire a chance to work from home, or any other place, even if it is just one day a week. Millennials are obviously aware of the dangers of overworking and possible burnout. They desire a positive work-life balance, which will allow them to spend more time with their friends and families, and not lose their precious time on the commute. Being such an independent generation, and with all the technological advancements available, it is much easier for them to stay connected with other employees and team members, and fulfilling their duties. So, as an employer, you should consider the practicality of this. By allowing remote work, even if it’s sporadically, you’ll get a highly motivated and eager workforce.
Work trends are changing, and people are changing. Unlike older generations, Millennials don’t see money as the number one priority when getting a job. Various benefits, company mission and vision, and the sense of companionship and stability are some of the aspects that drive Millennials toward a company. In a way, attracting and keeping today’s workforce is a much harder job than it used to be, as many prerequisites need to be fulfilled to make the place suitable for them. Thus, companies that offer more flexibility and independence are more likely to appeal to Millennials, than those who are much more rigid.
