Attract & Engage Millennials in Workplace

An architect based in San Diego, Douglas Austin is the chairman and CEO of AVRP Studios. As part of his work, Douglas Austin designs efficient high-rise buildings by taking a people-first approach. He has a passion for ensuring that people can work harmoniously in the same workplace, particularly when it comes to bridging the divide between baby boomers and Millennials. As more Millennials enter the workforce, established companies must take steps to integrate them into the workplace to be successful.

First, it’s important to recognize that Millennials grew up using digital tools as part of their everyday lives. Whereas baby boomers had to adapt to computers and smartphones, Millennials tend to have a deeper understanding of digital technologies and how they can be utilized in the workplace. One way to accommodate this is by offering Millennial workers the chance to select the technologies that allow them to do their jobs best, in addition to making any preferred tech hardware and software readily available.

The company’s values also play a role in how well Millennial employees are engaged. Up to 75 percent of people in this generation say that they want to work with companies with values that are aligned with their personal beliefs. This does not mean a company needs to alter its value structure to appeal to Millennials. Instead, values can simply be highlighted to attract Millennial employees who share the company's values. These employees are likely to be productive and long term, because they prefer working for a company that gives them purpose and a sense of belonging.