Millennials: You Don’t “Retain” Them, You “Evolve” Them

Millennials have made up at least one-quarter of the workforce since 2009.⁸ This number is on the rise as mature generations continue to retire. Since Millennials are the fastest growing generation in the workplace, and other generations have had the least amount of time to get accustomed to what makes Millennials tick, I want to focus on this demographic.

First and foremost, historically, the youngest generation entering the workforce has always caused a stir with older workers. When you entered the workforce—whether you are a Gen X-er, Baby Boomer, or Traditionalist—people of other generations wondered what your generation was thinking too. Social norms naturally change over time, and the youngest generation is always driving and aligning with the changes. The variance in viewpoints and outlook often makes it challenging for different generations to relate to one another. However, by simply gaining an understanding of what factors cause different generations to think and behave as they do, managers will be better able to engage their employees and foster an environment that supports all generations.