As the next generation — millenials — starts filling up more of the workforce manager-employee and employee-employee interactions are changing. The millennial age group is made up of those born roughly between the early 1980s and the early 2000s. Following are some tips to keep in mind when it comes to motivating your millennial employees.

  • Monetary incentives don’t motivate millenials as much as older employees. Instead, use a Friday off in December, tickets to a sport event or something similar as the motivation.
  • Millenials are very family-focused. Be flexible with them and their time. If they need an hour off to attend to a family matter, they will give you that hour back either later that day or during the week.
  • Millenials grew up getting instant feedback in school. They may need more than just an annual review. Communicate with them about their performance regularly. For example, send a tech a text that he did a great job rather than waiting for him to get back to the shop.
  • Make sure you establish a clear career path for them. Let them know where you see them in 2, 3 or 5 years, and also find out where they see themselves going in the company. Then be sure to communicate that plan regularly.