- Reach out to your younger employees.
- Establish the destination, but give them freedom on the path.
- Be flexible and open to new workplace solutions, both now and in the future.
Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done
Stop the stereotyping
Within each generation, there are different formative cultures and events in society, creating generational similarities. But remember each individual is unique, so don't make broad assumptions based merely on a person's age.I recommend: Go to Generations at Work for a wealth of information about different generations. Want to have some fun with it? Order the Connecting Generations board game!
Getting to know you
Studies show that the younger workforce, raised in the high-tech world of instant information, tends to process data quickly and then want more. Don't misinterpret this as a short attention span. Instead, give them maximum information access and watch what they do with it.I recommend: Check out Customer Service Gold to for insight into the younger generation.
Speak their language
Younger employees will appreciate the opportunity to develop their own solutions to challenges, so whenever possible, allow them the freedom to do so.I recommend: Computer-based training is definitely the way to go with the younger workforce. Check out the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for a list of dozens of online courses – for free.
Be flexible
Does your company offer flexibility in the form of telecommuting, flex hours and paid work enhancement training? No? There's no time like the present to start exploring such options. In today's workplace culture, more and more businesses are opening their policies to accommodate and woo young professionals, who are drawn to a flexible work culture.I recommend: The Spherion Emergent Company Survey can help you assess your workplace culture. How does your company stack up?
Changing times, changing minds
Don't be afraid to make changes in how your business "has always done" things.I recommend: Sign up for free "Next Generation" newsletters at Knowledge Café to stay informed on topics regarding the younger generation.
Tips & Tactics
Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide
- Back off: Don't micromanage – tell them what to do, and let them do it.
- Offer Rewards: Consider what types of rewards would motivate your younger employees, and then put them into action.
- Raise Social Consciousness: Studies show that younger employees tend to be socially aware, and appreciate a workplace that has the same mindset. Organize a volunteer workplace team-building event during the workweek.
- Encourage Creativity: Get younger employees' ideas on tackling a workplace issue – and consider putting this idea into force.
- Be Objective: If you're at odds with a younger employee, take a step back to determine if you're holding his age against him. Would you react this way with someone your own age?
Business On Main: Online Community
The Experts Answer Your Questions Online At Small Business Solutions!
www.BusinessOnMain.com
The Experts Answer Your Questions Online At Small Business Solutions!
www.BusinessOnMain.com
Abra Workforce Management
Improve Your Workforce Management with Integrated Sage Abra. View Demo.
View a Demo
www.SageAbra.com
Improve Your Workforce Management with Integrated Sage Abra. View Demo.
View a Demo
www.SageAbra.com
Workforce Management
Compare workforce management software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory.
Capterra.com
Compare workforce management software using Capterra's free, comprehensive directory.
Capterra.com
Workforce Management Systems - Free Price Quotes
Compare Prices and Save. Visit Now for Free Price Quotes!
Free Price Quotes | Start Request Now
Time.BuyerZone.com
Compare Prices and Save. Visit Now for Free Price Quotes!
Free Price Quotes | Start Request Now
Time.BuyerZone.com
Free B2B search marketing whitepaper, B2B Search Marketing Strategy Guide: Advice From the Pros.
