The Millennial generation hold particular characteristics, attitudes and career aspirations that set them apart from previous generations in the working world. As Millennials continue to enter the workforce in growing numbers, it’s critical for managers to understand these generational differences and adapt their business management style appropriately.
Why hire a Millennial?
There is often a negative connotation associated with Millennials when discussing their impact on the industry. However, there are many positive traits of Millennials that make them very valuable employees in the workplace.
One of the most desirable and defining characteristics of Millennial workers is their knowledge of technology. Young people today have grown up with computers, smartphones and the influx of social media, which means they are naturally able to pick up skills that may be more challenging for older generations. It is more important than ever to be technologically savvy within the workplace, and Millennials have a better grasp on this than any other generation before them.
The Millennial generation is often criticised for being glued to social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter or Instagram. However, having good social media skills are valuable in today’s working world. These platforms are widely used to promote businesses, products and services. Millennials understand the power of social media in spreading information and awareness and know how to use it to their advantage.
Another stand out characteristic of the Millennial generation is their dedication to good health and fitness. Employee health and wellbeing is essential for workplace productivity. Healthier employees have better energy levels throughout the work day and are less likely to take sick leave. Millennials tend to be more educated about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle due to the abundance of information promoted on the internet and social media. For instance, many young people follow social media accounts for healthy food ideas and post photos of their own fitness progress to show off to their followers. This helps encourage young people to maintain a healthier lifestyle, which will ultimately improve their overall well being and make them better workers.
Working with Millennials
Hiring Millennials also comes with its own set of challenges. Millennials are known to be an impatient generation. They have grown up in a world where technology has made it easy to get what they want quickly. Millennials expect immediate results, and this mindset can have an impact on the way they work throughout their career. For instance, they are often eager to seek new experiences and move up quickly within an organisation. This is arguably one of the greatest challenges of managing Millennials. Managers must find ways to focus their attention and keep them interested in their job. This could be achieved by regularly assigning them new types of projects and different temporary positions within the company.
One of the most common features of the Millennial generation is their need for approval and recognition. Millennials want to know that their efforts are being noticed and that their work is worthwhile. Managers must address this issue by regularly providing positive feedback or constructive criticism for their work. They should also encourage employees to give each other support and recognition because peer approval is just as important. Millennial workers will use this feedback to better themselves and work harder at their job. The Millennial generation will no doubt shape and define working culture for years to come, so it’s important that they are trained to become the best they can be.
Photo Credit: Millennial by Brooke Cagle via Unsplash.com under License
By Johanna Cider
Johanna is a freelance writer based in Auckland, New Zealand with experience writing about lifestyle, design and interiors.