Connect With Your Younger Workforce

The next generation of workers (teens and young adults) has gained a reputation of not being able to contribute at the same level the older generation did when they were young. Have you caught yourself talking about how today’s teens just don’t have the same work ethic you did and that they don’t listen, follow rules or respect their supervisors?

Sure, teens will be teens—and their immaturity and attitudes will surface on many occasions. However, before you dismiss this new generation of workers, take the following into account and use this knowledge to turn them into workplace stars.

Technology

One of the biggest technological advancements of the baby-boomer generation was replacing the 8-track tape player with the audiocassette. Today, teens and young adults only know a world with cell phones, computers, the Internet, Google, MySpace, YouTube and iPods. This has played a major role in shaping every aspect of their lives. Use this to your advantage by allowing younger workers to help you with technology-related projects. Get their input when updating your Web site or using social-networking sites. Allow them to share their wealth of knowledge.

Information and Communication

Not very long ago, information came from the evening news, daily newspaper or books. Communication was face-to-face, in writing or over the phone. But that has changed. Over the last decade, information and communication have evolved into an instantaneous stream, which can even be customized through cell phones, e-mail, instant messaging, texting and social-networking sites. Teens and young adults are hard-wired to process the maximum amount of facts, figures and news. Now, communication occurs at a far greater rate; however, it is far less personal. Use this to your advantage by texting or e-mailing your schedules and company information to younger workers and bringing them up to speed in a way that they are more familiar with.

Society and Culture

Much could be written regarding the escalating changes in society and our culture; however the following is just a few observations that will have a direct impact on how a teen or young adult will perform at work. We are a long way from the family sitting around the dinner table with mom and dad, recapping the day and discussing tomorrow. With access to credit cards, we have evolved to a consumer-driven society, dominated by brand names. At both the individual and professional levels, sports have taken on a far greater level of significance and involvement. Many times, role models have moved away from a local adult influence to distant celebrities. All of these things have shaped what teens and young adults expect in a work environment, which means they are less ready for the traditional workplace than past generations. Preparation for entry-level, hourly and seasonal jobs rarely occurs. Parents and schools have tended to abdicate this responsibility, and young adults honestly don’t see the cause and effect between a part-time job and the million-dollar lifestyle they aspire to. Smart employers will tackle this challenge by setting honest expectations up front, and then mentor younger workers on a regular basis so they stay on track with their future goals.

Appearance

Self-expression and personal identity has always been a high priority for teens. Tattoos, body piercings, and various hairstyles (and colors) are not acts of rebellion; rather, they are simply the process of carving out one’s individuality. This is a natural response to the bombardment of messages they receive on how to look and act. Don‘t pass judgment simply based on appearance—it is not a reflection of their performance. Instead, learn from them—teens and young adults are used to seeing things differently, and they are more accepting of other cultures and differences.

Speed

All of the above tend to have this as a common characteristic. Today’s youth have been raised in a 24/7, got-to-have-it-now world. Don’t expect to witness patience as a virtue at work. Use this to your advantage by encouraging multi-tasking in the office. Teens and young adults are used to managing multiple projects at once, so don’t feel the need to look over their shoulder constantly.

As different as this may be from the way you were raised, these elements drive all of the positive qualities of this new generation. Today’s teens and young adults are as able and capable as any generation before them ... maybe even more so because the qualities have made them adaptable, committed, innovative, knowledgeable, time-efficient, tolerant and able to multitask. Understanding and appreciating the unique environment they have been raised in is often the first step in making real progress with your younger staff. Take the time to consider how you can use their skills in your business and watch your productivity and profits soar.

Ken Whiting is an industry expert regarding entry-level workforce challenges. His “WAVES for Success” program teaches companies what inspires young adults and teens to participate, contribute and excel at work. His new book, "WAVES for Teenage Workforce Success," provides insights on recruiting, motivating and retaining younger employees. For a free copy of the "WAVES 101 Best Ways to Recruit, Retain, Educate and Motivate Today's Teens," visit www.wavesforsuccess.com. For speaking and consulting, call 831.423.1890, ext. 2 or e-mail ken@wavesforsuccess.com.