In recruiting and consulting, we get to see and experience the stereotypes about all the generations in the workforce. These stereotypes are generalizations about a group of people and, while they aren’t true for everyone, we should be aware of them. We need to understand what they are and how we can apply those understandings to the management of our teams.
We believe Millennials are a huge benefit to the workforce. After all, we at TalentID Group aren’t too far from the Millennial generation. We recently came across an article from 2017 that discussed how thinking like a Millennial brings entrepreneurial success. We can get on board with this one because much of what makes Millennials tick, is important in technology-focused companies and jobs. And since there is so much negativity surrounding the Millennial workforce, we wanted to shine a light on them as we believe they challenge the technology industry to continue improving and pushing forward.
Millennials grew up with computers and they communicate naturally and easily through technology so it makes sense that they are big players in this space. Another important fact to keep in mind is that they are currently the largest working demographic. By 2020, they will make up 75% of the workforce and by 2025, 75% (Inc.).
2020 is coming fast and 2025 isn’t too far off! So let’s get down to business and learn how to harness the benefits of Millennials and what makes them tick so we can all learn to work together and push towards the same goals.
Continually learn
Millennials want to grow and improve, both personally and professionally. Build relationships with your team members and support their growth. Be a manager that is engaged. Teach them what good management is so they can be good managers. When everyone continues to learn, the team grows, the company benefits and everyone wins.
Make a difference
Doesn’t everyone want to make a difference? Well maybe not quite like generations in the past. With social media so prevalent while this generation grew up, they saw influencers front and center grabbing the spotlight and making a difference. We’re not saying all Millennials want to be in the spotlight but they do want to connect with what they are doing and affect change for the good.
Have flexibility
Flexibility is more important in this generation than generations past. This generation isn’t interested in the typical 9 to 5 workday with two weeks of vacation. They want to travel the world, have a work-life balance and be successful in their careers. To have this flexibility, a focus on performance and goal setting is needed and technology can make it possible.
Be rewarded for their work
Rewards are important and they serve as a way to show your team your appreciation for them. Give them goals to drive towards so you can reward specific behaviors in the process of doing great work. Rewards can come in the form of recognition, more money, more responsibilities, promotions and more. Learn what makes your employees tick. Money doesn’t always win. Get creative and reward employees in a variety of ways for meeting their goals.
Move fast
Millennials are digital natives. They have grown up with technology changing from one day to the next and easily adapting to the latest and greatest trends. They aren’t adverse to change or risk. They can move quickly from one thing to the next and adjust without losing speed.
Keep these five keys in mind as you continue to improve the management of your Millennial teams. If you are having challenges managing your teams or if you are just looking to get ahead and build a culture of engagement across generations in your organization, we can help. Contact us today with your questions.