With the Baby Boomer generation making its way into
retirement, employers are starting to focus on how to recruit and hire the
newest generation entering the work force. The next generation includes people
born in the early 80s through the late 90s, and almost doubles the size of its
predecessor. "Generation Y" has many stereotypes and nicknames given to it - including "The Digital Generation", "The Millennials", and
last but not least, "The Entitlement Generation". Although this
generation may have already earned a reputation, they show great potential of
efficiency and a desire to change and enhance the current work force.
So how should employers go about hiring and training this
fickle group of employees? The most apparent and common answer includes using
social media and interactive career website pages that do more than list a job
title and its responsibilities. Millennials are used to connecting via a
service such as Linked-In or Facebook before actually meeting in person, and
would rather watch a video of daily work life inside of your business instead
of reading a job description. If possible, offer flexibility when describing
potential hours and schedules. Finally, advertise a culture of recognition to
prospective hires. Generation Y was raised with constant recognition and
although it may seem difficult for employers, that same type of recognition
will motivate and retain the most talented Generation Y employees.
Dr. Randall S. Hansen (founder of Quintessential
Careers) recommends employers offer a culture of constructive criticism and
mentoring rather than mostly negative feedback. Millennials respond more to
mentor relationships versus a rigid management structure that can seem
impersonal and intimidating.
Although stereotypes may be efficient for grouping an entire
generation, it goes without saying that each person is unique and is capable of
defying his or her generational stereotypes. For some employers, hiring members
of Generation Y may seem different from what they are used to, but the
employers who embrace the fact that Generation Y has much to offer and is the
future of their work-force will be the ones who hire and keep the best and brightest.
James Jordan
