The Millennials - a New Focus for the Recognition and Incentives Industry?

1 min read
Aug 31, 2015 12:00:00 AM

Whilst they are a ring-fenced generation, they still share with their older peers, a universal desire to be acknowledged, appreciated, and rewarded for their efforts in the workplace. Millennials are now reshaping the recognition and incentive industry.

However, the method with which we satisfy these needs is the vital tipping point in the success of engaging your Millennial employees.

With ‘Millennials’ now comprising the largest percentage of workers in the workplace (36% in the U.S.) their arrival is reshaping the way business owners, employers and HR professionals must effectively engage with this dominant demographic at work. Does this new generation now require new methods in the approach to recognition, rewards and incentive programmes?
 

Regular feedback and recognition

Millennials are used to instant access to information, so it’s important to give regular feedback and keep them posted on their steps to a successful career path and areas where they can improve. Check in with them regularly, provide supportive feedback and constructive advice, as well as offer opportunities for ongoing training and education as part of their career advancement.

 

Recognition through technology

Millennials are born with fingers swiping over touchscreens. They are technically savvy and love the instantaneous nature of both work and social life, which is their daily reality. Your recognition programme should therefore utilise social media to acknowledge your employees’ accomplishments as they happen, and encourage peer-to-peer sharing for a truly collaborative social experience.

 

Keep them in the game

Gamification takes the background mechanics of gaming and applies to non-game activities, with the aim of changing people’s behaviour. The key gaming characteristics can be built into applications on your recognition programme, which will trigger your employees' desire for mastery and completion, while providing immediate feedback and social sharing. Cover all basics and achieve the desired results.

 

The all singing, all dancing platform

As business owners we remain committed to finding the best ways to manage, motivate, train and retain our Millennial employees. Using social, gaming and instant access tools to recognise, reward and engage with employees, our platform features makes it easy to socialise whether it be individual, group, or team success stories across the entire organisation, which is vital for building a truly engaged workforce.