5 Strategies to Engage a Millennial Workforce

You’ve heard the stereotypes—millennials don’t work as hard as their predecessors. They demand ping pong tables instead of desks and they’re simply not going to stay in a job that doesn’t make them feel great all the time. But the truth is, those born between 1980 and 1996 have similar career aspirations to older generations. They thrive when faced with challenging work and they’re eager to make a difference in the world. What’s more? Millennials are the future. By 2025, the generation many have deemed “work-shy” will make up roughly 75% of the global labor force—so ensuring they’re engaged at work is crucial to the success of your organization. Why? Engaged employees are happier, more productive and more likely to make their employers profitable.

Understanding 55% of millennials are not engaged at work has shaped the way we manage the ever-impactful group. Here are 5 strategies to help you foster an engaging office culture tailored to their needs.  

1. Be the Coach

While old school bosses are all about power and prestige, millennials demand coaches: bosses who will guide them on the path to success. Instead of playing the role of commander in chief, be a mentor. This generation works best under leaders who are dedicated to helping them navigate and develop their strengths. 

• Foster Collaborative Work Environments

The every-man-for-himself working style is no more. The majority of Millennials value community and collaboration. In fact, 88% say they’d prefer to work in a collaborative environment rather than a competitive one—so foster a culture that emphasizes the importance of teamwork.

• Offer Flexible Work Options

Over the years, workplace flexibility has become increasingly more important for employees—and especially millennials. Believers that productivity shouldn’t be measured by the number of hours worked at the office, this generation advocates flexibility. If possible, try offering your employees the option of working from home or outside the typical nine-to-five schedule. After all, 77% of millennial employees say a flexible schedule would make them more productive.

• Be Transparent

While Gen Xers and Baby Boomers want bosses who’ll give them a pat on the back and validate their opinions, Millennials want to know that they’re valued—as humans and employees. So, go ahead and be transparent with your employees about what’s going on behind the scenes and with the higher ups. The millennials in your life will thank you—and show their loyalty in return.

• Make Your Mission Clear

Where previous generations were driven by a paycheck, Millennials are driven by a purpose. They’re after rich, meaningful experiences, and jobs at companies where the mission is clear, positive and reiterated more often than not.

Did you know engaged employees are happier employees—and happy employees are 59 times more likely to endorse your company? Attend our Culture of Engagement workshop and develop a plan of action tailored to your organization.