Managing a Millennial Workforce
Do millennials seem like the black sheep at your organization? The key to effectively managing your millennial workforce is to understand they are far different than those of older generations – which is a good thing! Millennials bring an entirely renewed and fresh perspective to many aspects of the workplace, from culture and morale to operations and productivity. It’s the job of employers to recognize the value millennials bring to the table and harness their many positive attributes by implementing fair and effective management practices.
As your organization brings on board more millennials, here are 3 important tips for managing – and embracing – this unique and dynamic generation:
1. Re-evaluate your culture
One of the most differentiating factors about millennials compared to those of other generations is that most of them aren’t just seeking a paycheck, but an environment in which they can grow, collaborate and learn. If your culture is stale or uninspiring, millennials will be quick to mentally check out and look for work elsewhere. There are many ways to create a culture that better attracts, engages and retains millennials, such as:
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- implementing internal protocols that foster teamwork,
- encouraging innovation and new ideas,
- offering flexible or remote work options, and
- establishing workplace wellness programs among many other initiatives.
2. Invest in onboarding and training
What is perhaps most important to recognize about millennials is they tend to value much more than their paychecks, heavily focusing their careers on work that resonates with them on a personal level. They are craving opportunities to make meaningful contributions to the workplace, and therefore, require the proper guidance to become well acclimated in their roles. By investing in your onboarding and training programs, you’ll imbue your millennial employees with the critical tools and knowledge they need to excel in their jobs and advance to higher positions. Furthermore, your employees will see firsthand how much you’re committed to their career growth by supporting their long-term success at your organization.
3. Establish a framework for routine feedback
Unlike their older counterparts, millennials are wired to seek regular feedback about how they’re doing. This isn’t because they all want a constant “pat on the back,” but rather, many of them consistently strive to improve their performance and work on their weaknesses. Employers that train their managers to offer constructive feedback on a weekly or monthly basis will be better positioned to keep their millennial workers more engaged in their roles, as well as help them become more productive and better performing. Establishing a structured model or system for feedback will give your managers a solid framework for better engaging their millennial subordinates, helping them overcome challenges, prevent burnout and improve retention in the long run.
Are You Ready For The Millennial Generation?
By making the above adjustments to your management approach, you’ll create an environment in which your millennial employees can thrive and connect with your mission. If your organization is struggling to attract and retain top millennial talent, a strategic recruiting partnership can help. Get in touch with Kinsa Group today and find the best candidates in the food and beverage industry.
Need more tips to engage with millennials in your workplace? Check out Kinsa Group’s other blogs on this topic: