3 Ways to Make Your Employees More Productive

Generation Y has a bad rap. Stereotyped as selfish slackers, it’s no wonder that those born between 1980 and 1995 may inspire reservations when it comes to hiring them.

When surveyed, business owners most commonly responded that they liked Generation Y employees’ work, but not their entitled attitude. And while about a quarter of those surveyed said that Generation Y workers were an asset to their companies, more than 20 percent of respondents have never hired a Generation Y employee.

According to Barbara Kurka, senior vice president of human resources at Katz Media Group, Inc., as the children of baby boomers, Generation Y has seen their parents let down by companies and industries they worked for their whole lives. As a result, their attitude is, I will be loyal to you as long as you’re loyal to me. “That’s free-market loyalty, which can be short term, much like what you might have with your customers,” says Kurka. Generation Y definitely has its positives, though. “I do think they’re hard workers. They can bring a lot of energy and inventiveness to the workplace.” And while, unlike their parents, Generation Y workers might give up on a job, quitting after only a week or two, in the long run it may save you time in training.

If your company has young employees with great potential, here are a few ways to make sure they stay focused, productive and excited about succeeding at your company.

• Let them know. “Clear communication is key to working with any generation,” says Kurka, “They want to know how they’re doing. They want to know that somebody notices them.” Sit down with them and have a direct conversation, addressing their accomplishments and how they can improve in the future. Lay out your expectations and how you plan to help them reach their goals.
• Show them the ropes. Kurka suggests that businesses should also consider having a mentoring program for Generation Y employees. Young people want to see that there’s someone looking out for them, and a mentor can be a sounding board, as well as a learning opportunity.
• Meet them on their own turf. More often than not, younger workers make more use of technology. Some Generation Yers may prefer communicating via email rather than face to face. A mix of in-person and online communication should benefit all generations—but, when you’re having a one-on-one meeting, make sure everyone keeps their phones switched off.

Generation Y is known for their creativity, new ideas and technological expertise. Use all their skills to your company’s advantage and you could wind up with an employee who’s with you for a long time.