Over the past 10 years, HR managers have hired millennials in order to bring in fresh talent. Not only have these individuals served as the backbone for many organizations, but they will also become the future leaders of many companies. In fact, nearly 75% of the global workforce will be composed of millennials by 2025.1 If you want to effectively compete for the most qualified candidates, finding ways to attract millennials needs to be a top priority. So, what does this creative generation look for from a potential workforce? Below are five key expectations millennials have when it comes to the terms and conditions of their employment.
- Flexible Scheduling
Having the flexibility to work around traditional 9–5 hours is of the utmost importance to millennials. Members of this generation also highly value the ability to work outside the confines of an office. In fact, according to a Deloitte study, roughly 75% of Generation Y thinks a “work from home” or “work remotely” policy is important.1 These policies demonstrate that a company trusts its employees and recognizes their need for independence, which is a core value to millennials. - Work-Life Balance
Much like the freedom flexible scheduling and remote work provides, millennials value employers that also promote work-life balance. Because millennials tend to be in constant connection—whether via smart phone, laptop, or tablet—they are used to an “always-on” work culture. This means they have little issue bringing their job-related responsibilities home with them, like taking calls or responding to emails after hours. This integration goes both ways, however, and millennials expect the ability to bring aspects of their life to work, such as attending a mid-day yoga class or their child’s school play. - Commitment to Social Change
Millennials are an altruistic and purpose-driven generation. In fact, a 2016 Forbes survey revealed that 80% of millennials are active in their community outside of work.2 However, a commitment to effecting positive social change isn’t limited to just their personal lives. Rather, millennials seek out employers who can mirror their dedication to promoting goodwill. Often, this means offering team-building or volunteer opportunities that focus on environmentalism, social issues, or helping local nonprofit organizations. - Regular Feedback
According to a study reported in the Harvard Business Review,3 millennials want frequent feedback from their managers. When asked how often they would like to receive feedback, more millennials chose frequent measures—daily, weekly, and monthly sessions—than did non-millennials. It’s important for millennials to know where they stand, which is why feedback is preferred on a regular basis. If feedback is given sporadically, millennials can lose connection and drift, becoming less engaged and productive. - Growth Opportunities
Millennials want to work for a company that’s invested in their personal and professional development. A commitment to the personal growth of employees can mean free or discounted gym memberships, access to mental health services and resources, and training on how to enhance soft skills. Professional development can include on-site mentoring or access to educational certifications and courses, as well as encouraging employees to attend industry conferences. Giving millennials the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in business—as well as take care of their own needs—is a surefire way to attract the top candidates to your workforce.
Gain the In-Demand Skills You Need to Make a Difference in Your HR Career at Walden University
Employment of HR managers is expected to grow 6% from 2019 to 2029, faster than the average for all occupations.4 And as the field of human resource management evolves, so should your skills. When you earn your master’s in human resource management, you position yourself for a variety of opportunities in HR as well as other areas of business. In Walden’s MS in Human Resource Management program, you’ll have access to the practical learning experiences and SHRM-aligned coursework that can give you the advanced competencies you need to make a difference as an HR manager.
At Walden, an accredited university, you can earn a degree online while you continue to work full time. That means you don’t have to put your HR career on hold while you further your knowledge. With online education, there’s no need to completely rearrange your schedule or commute to campus—you can take classes at whatever time of day is best for you as you work to earn your master’s degree and advance your HR career.
Walden University is an accredited institution offering an MS in Human Resource Management degree program online. Expand your career options and earn your degree using a convenient, flexible learning platform that fits your busy life.
Walden’s MS in Human Resource Management program fully aligns with the Society for Human Resource Management’s HR Curriculum Guidebook and Templates, which helps define HR education standards and helps business schools develop degree programs that follow these standards.
1Source: www2.deloitte.com/global/en/pages/about-deloitte/articles/millennialsurvey.html
2Source: www.forbes.com/sites/mikeperlis/2016/06/06/forbes-survey-reveals-what-millennials-really-want/#3809257d6755
3Source: https://hbr.org/2015/02/millennials-want-to-be-coached-at-work
4Source: www.bls.gov/ooh/management/human-resources-managers.htm
Walden University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission, www.hlcommission.org.