Millennials have been in the workforce for a number of years now, but they’re not easy to attract or keep. In a world where company loyalty seems to be dwindling (in both directions), how can today’s manufacturing leaders create an attractive and stimulating environment? With the following tips, you’ll transform your workplace into one young workers will flock to.

Involve them in implementing new tech

When it comes to new tech, millennials are the ones who are going to fight for change and be on your side when you want to upgrade. Older generations can be stuck in their way of working, with their common “we’ve always done it this way, so why would we change” attitude. Emphasize tech that drives the industry to show that it’s an evolving and exciting sector, and involve employees in implementing it. Since millennials grew up with tech, they won’t hesitate to provide input and grasp learning opportunities.

Provide challenges and change

Nothing worse than a work environment that doesn’t change, especially for a young employee. They thrive in a workplace where they are constantly challenged in a different way, especially if that workplace is also flexible. The manufacturing industry doesn’t have a great reputation either, millennials have seen manufacturing jobs be outsourced to other countries, so it doesn’t seem like a stable field. Highlight the opportunities and benefits this field provides. Give employees flexibility, promote a strong work-life balance, and you’ll notice your employees going the extra mile as well.

Acknowledge their achievements and promote learning

Millennials have been described as the ‘participation trophy’ generation, where they expect to have their shoulder patted for the bare minimum of work. This statement doesn’t make sense, even less so if you consider the job market millennials had to step into: unrealistic requirements for entry-level jobs, with fierce competition, and economic instability. In this context, it makes sense that the hard work they put in should be appreciated, and any comments that will help them improve their work will be met with gratitude. Tell them what they did well, tell them how they can do better (best of all: train them how to be better), and they will be more than happy to prove their worth.

Collaborate

In  manufacturing, it’s crucial to keep innovating and optimizing your processes. Especially now when the boomer generation is slowly retiring, you need young people to replace them, and make sure your workplace doesn’t rust. This generation also loves collaborating to come up with solutions, and be productive. If you emphasize new employees’ involvement in the company’s future, and the collaborative aspect to achieve goals, millennials won’t hesitate to send in their CVs.

Listen, and communicate

What it comes down to is giving millennials the opportunities to grow, challenge themselves, and the breathing space to discover what is right for them. If they find themselves in such an open environment, you’ll notice that in return, you lead a dedicated employee willing to go above and beyond, who thinks with you about the future of your business. What more could you want?

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