Peer to Peer Magazine

HOW to LOSE aY in10 DAYS If your firm doesn't do these 10 things, my generation will run off to look for bigger and better opportunities. SHOW US THE BENEFITS We have growing concerns regarding the rising cost of health care and the possible lack of Social Security benefits for our generation. Therefore, we want the best health care and retirement benefits a firm can offer. If possible, make our options easy to understand and don't make us wait months before benefits kick in. Vacation days and flex hours — along with benefits such as paid parking or transportation — go a long way, too. Consider offering a day off every month to be used solely for volunteer work, or provide money every year to purchase a bicycle or new shoes for those who ride or walk to work. The more creative and diverse the benefits, the more attractive they are. RECOGNIZE OUR IDEAS We, like anyone, want to feel we are an integral part of the success of the firm. Communication is key. Let us know why one of our ideas is not being considered rather than simply nixing it with no explanation. Encourage us to find more efficient ways of doing things. You may be surprised by our ideas and find they can save the firm time and, ultimately, money. EXPLAIN THE WHO, WHEN AND WHY GIVE US AN OFFER WE CAN'T REFUSE We know our value, either because of our experience or because it can be looked up on the Internet. Instead of offering a low-starting salary with the promise of a raise or bonus later, make us an offer now that we can't refuse. Right or wrong, "Gen Y will take the good offer now over a great one tomorrow." — Peter Sheahan, founder and CEO of ChangeLabs ALLOW ROOM FOR ADVANCEMENT Nobody wants to be in a job that offers no feasible room to grow. Gen Y is often criticized for not paying their dues or not climbing the corporate ladder, but often that next rung on the ladder is either nonexistent or occupied by someone who has no intention of ever leaving. In order for us to advance, sometimes we have to move to another ladder. PROVIDE SUPPORT Let us know you genuinely care about our success. The best managers and companies I have worked for were those that did their best to help me grow. In return, I did my best for them. NOTICE GOOD WORK My generation is pegged mistakenly as one that requires constant praise. In reality, we just want feedback on a regular basis and to be acknowledged for our contributions — and not necessarily with money. Simply let us know you're aware of what we're doing, especially after a big success. Acknowledging you appreciate the effort and results goes a long way in motivating us. 58 Peer to Peer Most of us grew up with technology, so we have an easy time learning how to use it (not to mention we're proficient using Google to learn "how"). Training that focuses on the who, when and why will go a lot farther in indoctrinating a new millennial into your firm than focusing on the mechanics of how. OFFER INTERESTING WORK We want to be challenged. Don't assign work based solely on the company's needs. Rather, assign work based on specific skills and aptitude. You will find we have a strong work ethic and passion when working on assignments we are good at and like doing. IMPLEMENT CASUAL FRIDAY This does not mean you need a casual dress code altogether. Offer opportunities for employees to dress down every now and then. Whether on Mondays, Fridays or hump days, we'll appreciate whatever we can get. I've also seen companies allow employees to make a minimal donation (up to $5) for the privilege of wearing jeans on certain days. The money can be donated to a different cause each time and adds up to a substantial amount by the end of the year. Comfort at the office makes for all-around happier and more creative employees, and there are ways to do this without compromising professionalism. CREATE A SOFTBALL (OR OTHER SPORT) TEAM This one may sound silly, but it's important. Not only is this an opportunity to create a fun culture for your employees, it's a huge opportunity to work on team-building and camaraderie. If you're reading this thinking nobody would show up, it's a sure sign you're in need of office team-building. Office happy hours can serve as a nice alternative. Blur the lines a little between management, attorneys and staff, and have some fun!

• Cover