Millennial Demands: Fulfill These and Everyone Wins

Millennials currently make up about 36% of the US workforce, and it is projected that they will represent 46% of workers by 2020. This generation, slated for take-over, has some demands, but it turns out that everyone can benefit from what millennials want out of their workplace. Millennials Want Technology Sometime this generation gets a bad rap for being glued to their smart devices 24/7. Some would even describe the millennial’s go-to smart device as an extension of themselves. Because of the huge difference in the way they communicate compared to the generations before them, their tech obsession can look unprofessional and even rude to those around them, but it seems we’re all benefiting from their connection with connectivity. Bentley University’s Preparedness Study revealed that 74% of non-millennial workers agree that millennials offer different skills and working styles that add value to the workplace. “No generation before has had as much access, technological power or the infrastructure to share their ideas as quickly as the millennials,” said Shama Hyder, a Forbes tech writer “They are used to speed, multi-tasking and working on their own schedule. These can be great assets in a knowledge economy which values end results over the process.” Millennials Want Flex Time and Telecommuting Options Sometimes referred to as the “No Collar Workers,” millennials widely believe that work is about what you do, not where you go. While they are known for their ability to work effectively in a team setting, millennials demand the work-life balance that flex work and telecommuting options allow for. About 40% of millennial employees would take lower pay if they had more flexibility on the job. The amazing technology that came with this generation allows that to happen pretty seamlessly (if lead correctly). So what do employers get in return? For starters, full-time telecommuting can save companies 20-37K annually, per employee. Additionally, flex time and telecommuting options are considered a major perk for this generation. Employers can use this as dirt-cheap leverage for a competitive advantage when recruiting top millennial talent. Millennials Want Feedback Millennials crave not only recognition, but guidance and constructive criticism too. They are driven by the type of communication that builds them up and improves their work (and a little ego boost never hurt anyone). In fact, 53% of millennials feel a mentoring relationship with their manager would improve their value and productivity. Employers then end up with productive, engaged and valued employees. Another win-win in the millennial attraction and retention game. Feedback systems or surveys are one of those employee engagement factors that employers should be implementing anyhow. Stop putting your feedback, mentoring or communication programs on hold if you want a slice of the millennial pie. Millennials Want Social Media Freedom Don’t roll your eyes; let me explain. Social media in the workplace is a battle that employers aren’t going to win through censorship. Workers are going to use social media whether you “allow” it or not. Employers have to learn to embrace the power of social media, and create brand ambassadors out of this huge segment of their workforce. Just look at some of these stats on millennials and their SoMe:

• 66% of millennials would look up a store after learning that a friend had checked-in to that store on their mobile device.
• 1/3 of millennials would prioritize social media freedom, device flexibility and work mobility over salary in a job offer.
• 43% of the millennial generation have liked more than 20 brands on Facebook.
• 91% of millennials make their Facebook places and Foursquare check-ins public (aka your business).

Millennials can be your most effective social media tool, as long as you don’t censor them. Instead, educate them and give them guidelines. Many organizations are setting up a hashtag specifically for their employees to share and connect. These are also great for prospective employees to learn about the culture and make social connections. Millennials aren’t just bringing with them a sense of entitlement and short attention span. They have a lot to offer to a work environment that values their skills and experience. From a better work-life balance, to some pretty amazing social media reach, millennials demands sound like just what today’s workforce needs.