Millennials, the largest population in the current workforce switch jobs twice as much as other employees over the past twenty years (LinkedIn). These go-getters are changing jobs seeking a faster pace of career growth, a compatible work environment, and higher pay. Some say that employers should get used to this idea. However, the reality of the situation is that the constant search for new employees can be exhausting and paralyze the growth of a business. Therefore, finding ways to keep these young, talented employees around can be a worthwhile effort.
Positive Work Culture
The young employees of today crave more than the cordial relationships that the traditional 9-5 workday can offer. Millennials want to work in an environment where everyone is working together for a higher purpose and the big picture in mind. They desire strong connections with their co-workers and even friendships that will help develop them as a professional and an individual.
In order to appeal to young employees, businesses and employers must create an environment where everyone is respected and celebrated to foster those desired relationships.
Flexible Work Schedule
For young employees, especially, a healthy work/life balance is a requirement for job satisfaction. They want a job that they can take with them wherever they need or want to go.
As mentioned before, millennials desire strong relationships with others, which includes relationships with their friends and family as well. By providing a flexible work opportunity where employees can work from a remote vacation location, or from home if need be, employers offer the opportunity for employees to not become overwhelmed by work, and therefore a higher job satisfaction.
Professional Development
When frequently switching jobs, one thing that millennials and young employees are searching for is the opportunity to learn more about their professional field. They continuously crave more knowledge, the opportunity to better themselves, and the opportunity to develop expertise. Therefore, offering opportunities for professional development such as seminars, conferences, and even mentorship programs will help to make your workplace more appealing to young professionals.
Frequent Employee Reviews
An essential aspect of professional development is the ability to receive evaluation and to improve based on it. Young professionals are eager to receive feedback from their employers and likewise desire the opportunity to provide recommendations as well. By developing a process for frequent communication, employers can meet these needs.
Opportunities for Financial Gain
Of course, not everyone changes jobs for money, but it doesn’t hurt. Young professionals have a better chance of getting a raise by changing jobs than by staying with an employer for a long period of time. The traditional annual review and small salary increase are not enough to satisfy the financial needs of these talented young professionals. If a business is able, offering the opportunity for semi-annual raises, additional bonuses, or individual project contracts is valuable and appealing.
One thing to remember is that young professionals aren’t afraid of work. They will invest passionately in a job if the company invests in them.