One common misconception about the millennial generation is that they can oftentimes be lazy. The fact is that this statement could be made for anybody. What we can say is that millennials are more commonly known to be tech-savvy multitaskers who prefer instant gratification and recognition. They enjoy working in teams but also value a strong work-life balance.
If you’re on the hunt for the best young talent, there are a few tactics that can attract the hardworking:
1. Turn to digital
Step 1: put your organization on social media. The younger talent is out there, eager to work – they’re checking LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and many other social media outlets. Post photos of your employees’ day-to-day office life, share your job posting on all of your pages. Sooner or later, young talent is going to come your way.
2. Think small
Recent research has found that just 15% of new grads want to work for a large company, which means that even the best-established corporations can’t win their vote. Millennials want a creative atmosphere where they can grow. They want to prove their value and thrive with a smaller company or a startup. Even if you are a large company, there are ways you can reorganize, such as creating more flexible work and adopting an open door policy (which we will cover a little later in this entry) – both of these methods will work in favor of both you and the employee.
3. Create a fun culture
As we mentioned, work-life balance is huge for this generation. For them, it’s the little efforts on an employer’s end that matters. They’d rather work for a lower payer salary and a more fun atmosphere than the other way around. For example, you could start a happy hour tradition every Tuesday or create a fun seating arrangement that will encourage them to be more involved in their work – the sky’s the limit.
4. Have an open door policy
An open door policy is crucial to attracting the best young talent. Why? Because the more transparent they can be with you, the more accomplished they will become. They want to hear your honesty regarding their work and appreciate encouragement as well as constructive criticism. Bottom line: keep the door open and let them know they are welcome to speak with you whenever help is needed.
5. Make connections early
You don’t have to wait until the last minute to snatch up young talent. Over 70% of 2015 grads surveyed from Fast Company had an internship, apprenticeship, or co-op during college. This experience can not only promise great candidates who are excited to work for you, but it also helps to pinpoint talent early on.
If you’re looking to hire the very best of the younger generation and find that your tactics aren’t working as best as you had hoped, that’s where Madison Approach Staffing can step in to help. We are a staffing agency with the right connections and mindset, ready to help you attract the best talent for your next hire! To learn more, call 914-428-4800 or visit us on the web.
