80% of Millennials Prefer On-The-Spot Recognition Over Formal Reviews

Small design firms must start understanding the most powerful generation since the Baby Boomers if they want to attract and keep talent (for three years or less – that’s the recent statistic for how long they will stay in a position).

Today’s workers have different goals and aspirations than other generations – and much of their desires are about freedom, friendship, flexibility, travel, being unfettered from traditional ownership norms like owning houses and cars. They are more likely to rent, shop at IKEA, shun designer handbags, and have severe mobile phone attachment. They shop by phone, participate in social media, and socialize more than the more mature generations.

How do you find them and attract them? If you’re not on social media, then you might have a hard time connecting with this generation. Give them positive feedback often, and don’t expect excitement about participating in formal reviews of their work. Learn to be “in the moment” and use positive reinforcement.

Expect to have a more relaxed dress code and know that almost half of new potential hires may have tattoos (39%) and multiple piercings. It’s not the 50s any more.

The Millennials (Gen Y – born 1980 – 2000) are also our future clients. What does that mean for your business? Stay tuned for the next article.

See more at:
http://danschawbel.com/blog/74-of-the-most-interesting-facts-about-the-millennial-generation/#sthash.qHNa6mm0.dpuf