Today’s workforce is booming with an influx of talent. These fresh, young pros, known collectively as Generation Y, or Millennials, is characterized by the following traits:

*    They were born between 1980 and 2000.
*    There are nearly 100 million of them.
*    They grew up with exposure to events like 9/11, Columbine, Hurricane Katrina and turmoil in the Middle East
*    They are subject to very high amounts of student loan debt
*    They are most confident when working with technology.

Generation Y brings a fresh approach to the workplace, but there are ways you can maximize their potential and help them achieve more in your company. Here are three differences you may notice with this generation:

*    They want more from their jobs. Generation Y thinks outside of the typical 9 to 5 workday. They want to be engaged and involved in your company and the greater community. They seek ways to do that outside of the typical workday. To help satiate this need and avoid frustration with your Generation Y employees, be sure to provide ample opportunity for your employees to engage in meaningful activities outside of the office. Consider offering flex time, telecommuting opportunities or team volunteer activities.
*    They want to learn, and they’re looking in the workplace for their teachers. Transitioning from school to the workplace can be difficult for some young professionals, but you can ease that transition and help ensure that Generation Y employees are happy in your company. Provide clear mentoring and learning opportunities, so that your Generation Y employees can successfully transition to the corporate world.
*    They’re not necessarily thinking about your company in the long term. Sure, many of them may wish they could find a company to stay with for the next four decades, but the truth is that many Millennials don’t think they’ll end up with the same company for their entire career. To keep your Generation Y talent happy, and thinking about your company for the long term, define career paths and ascension plans for young professionals, with clear, attainable goals. WIth a defined path in front of them, they are much more likely to stick with you in the long haul.

Need fresh talent?
Come to Expert Staffing. We’ll source our extensive network of professionals to find exactly who your organization needs to succeed.