Introduction
Millennials—the term used to describe those born between 1981 and 1996—are now the largest generation in the U.S. labor force. As technology and digital communication become more embedded in day-to-day business activities, it is essential for companies to adjust to the needs of their millennial workforce to remain competitive. Millennials have a different set of values and motivations from their predecessors, and organizations need to step up to meet their expectations or risk losing the top talent of today and tomorrow.
In this article, we explore some of the key factors that influence the attitudes of millennial workers. Understanding these factors will help companies design strategies to better engage, motivate, and retain millennials.
Factors that Drive Millennial Attitudes
1. Training and development opportunities
Millennial workers place high value on their professional development and seek mentors and guidance to help them progress in their careers. They are eager to learn new skills and look for training opportunities that offer the chance to up skill, stay informed on industry trends, and stay competitive in their chosen field. Companies should explore ways to provide their employees with access to such learning resources, whether through self-learning, seminars, or workplace training.
2. Flexibility in the workplace
Millennials value and desire workplace flexibility to achieve better work-life balance. Employers should consider offering flexible working hours and telecommuting options to give employees more control over their schedules. Such arrangements will demonstrate a company’s commitment to their employees’ sense of individual autonomy and trust and will likely prompt them to be more loyal, productive, and engaged.
3. Serving a higher purpose
Millennials prioritize meaningful work over rewards and recognition, so companies should work to ensure their employees are given the chance to contribute to meaningful projects. Companies should consider aligning their values with their employees’ goals and desired causes, so that millennials have the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution and expand their impact.
4. A sense of community
Millennials are highly social creatures and crave opportunities to collaborate with their peers. Companies should focus on creating a sense of community in the workplace to foster a more connected and energized team. Initiatives such as team-building activities, open forums, and social events can all help millennials to better connect with each other and the organization.
Conclusion
By understanding what drives millennial attitudes in the workplace, companies can create an environment that encourages and nurtures millennial engagement, motivation, and retention. Companies should continue to be mindful of the generational differences between their workforce and ensure that they are adapting their strategies to meet their millennial employees’ needs and preferences. Appropriately addressing these considerations can position any organization to gain the competitive edge in hiring and retaining the best talent.
