The benefits of hiring from the Generation Y workforce

Over the past decade, millennials have been unfairly scrutinized by other generations. Millennials' are the future of our workforce in the UK and across the globe. It is crucial for organisations to understand the worth of generation Y and to recognise that they are an asset to their teams.

The stereotyped millennial

Millennials have been stereotyped as being lazy and self-entitled because they are born of a generation that was given participation trophies just for getting involved. However, there will always be those in each generation who feel they deserve more than they earn. It's most likely this belief comes from the fact that millennials are quite switched on when it comes to knowing what they're worth. A professional that has gone through four years of rigorous university study, only to be offered minimum wage, is not categorically entitled if they ask for more. 

Characteristics of a Generation Y professional

Unsurprisingly, the stereotyped characteristics of an entire generation aren't usually accurate. We have put together some of the positive traits found in millennials at work. 

Technology

One of the obvious characteristics of a millennial is their natural instinct for technology. Those born between 1981 and 1996 have grown up with computers, phones, iPads, and everything in between. So, picking up and working with new software and hardware is second nature to them. Their tech-savvy nature is helping ensure technological resources work as they should, meaning that businesses get the most efficiency and productivity out of the tools they are using.

Creativity

As a generation that has grown up alongside massive leaps in technology, it's easy to see why their outlook on life aligns with 'anything is possible'. Their creativity means that they're tackling tasks with new ideas and fresh outlooks. This is quickly eradicating outdated processes and bringing in more streamlined solutions.

Collaboration

This generation is also notably collaborative. From their first day of school, all the way to university, their teachers have put emphasis on the importance of working together, listening to one another, and pulling together everyone's strengths to get the best outcome. Pair this with millennials' use of collaborative technology, such as group chats and emails, and it makes for an efficient taskforce for any project.

Environmentally friendly

Millennials are also extremely concerned about the environment, which means they are more eco-friendly than previous generations. This consideration for the environment is helping companies to reconsider their own policies regarding everything from paperwork to recycling, which is beneficial for business branding. 

It's a combination of their positive traits that are coming together to create change in workplaces around the world. The millennial attitude is not one of disdain for the workplace and superiors but a love of a challenge, the right attitude to solve problems, and an ingrained sense of needing to help.

If you are looking to hire in your sector, please get in touch with one of our specialist recruitment consultants today. Alternatively, why not browse our management advice content where we can help you to properly assess candidates in an interview.