Born in the ‘80s and raised in the ‘90s, Millennials are a tricky generation to court. Confident but coddled, competitive but team-minded, social but independent, young professionals from this generation are a breed apart ­– and that can be a great thing for your business.
Before you go fishing for young talent in the pool of recent graduates, make sure you’re using the right bait.
For a company that’s interested in attracting new talent, it has to help ease the sting of the kick to the face that is adulthood. These freshly minted grown ups want to be challenged and to grow as professionals. They want to work in an environment that meshes well with their values and personalities. They want to feel like valuable members of a team with opportunity to advance.
Is that so wrong?!?
Bring It On. There’s nothing more disheartening than pouring years of your youth into learning a skill only to never use it. Learn where their talents, strengths, and interests lie and challenge them to pursue projects that utilize them.
Help Them Grow. Young employees have just spent the last 20 years of their lives learning stuff. Instead of stifling their unquenchable thirst for knowledge, give them opportunities to share ideas and offer input. Offer mentoring opportunities. Give them face time with managers. And give them ways to advance within the company.
Fits Like a Glove. A lot of success is dependent upon finding the right fit. It’s just as important for a young professional to fit within a corporate culture as it is for them to fit within their individual jobs. Fostering an environment that encourages teamwork and fosters creativity is critical to convincing talent to, essentially, give up a quarter of their lives to commit to you.
Most Valuable Players. It doesn’t matter if they’re fresh out of college or war worn veterans of real life; employees want to feel that their efforts are valued and that they’re respected as individuals. It’s not just the money and recognition; it’s the camaraderie… and money… and recognition.
Strike a Balance. Millennials work to live, not live to work. Respecting their need for work-life balance is essential to keeping young professionals on your team. Flexible scheduling, paid time off, and the ability to detach from work will help this generation of social butterflies emerge from their cocoons…and use their skills towards your business in a big, profitable way.

Last week, Jill of All Trades Aimee Brock shared “graduation” tips for anyone entering the workforce. This week, she speaks to your business and how to attract today’s young professionals. Have a way to add? Share in the comments below or with Aimee directly!