HIRING AND RETAINING THE ‘GEN Y’ WORKFORCE
by Janis Whitaker, JP Whitaker & Associates
Who are the Gen Y’ers? Generally speaking, this population includes those who were born between 1980 - 1994. This is a very bright and demanding population. They want answers, reasons, and explanations for everything. Their name “Gen Y” explains it all… Why? Why? Why? There are over 60 million Gen Y’ers, so watch out!
Some might see this generation as impatient, disengaged, skeptical, and unreliable. However, there is a wonderful positive side to this ‘up and coming’ workforce. The upside is they are adaptable, innovative, tolerant, and committed. When they are at work, they work hard; when they are not at work, they play hard! In many ways, they are perfecting work-life balance.
When interviewing the Gen Y workforce:
- Ask their opinions about problem solving and how they will fit into your organization.
- Let them tell you about their skills and how they will use them to benefit your company.
- Lay out the benefits and perks for them and their family and explain how your company will respect their time away from the job.
To retain these valuable employees, discuss their performance regularly and openly, being specific with areas for improvement and acknowledge their strengths. Always explain why things are the way they are. But, don’t be surprised if that is questioned!
The Gen Y population is an intelligent and valuable generation. Let’s be open to the possibilities and use their skills of innovation and determination to benefit us all.
