How do you motivate employees of the new generations
Like it or not, the job market is evolving rapidly. Employees of the new generations have different expectations. They are no longer willing to work overtime. They don’t want to be “bound to the office”. According to the Workmonitor Romania study, only half of Romanians believe that a full-time role will be the ideal work formula for them in the future.
Flexibility has become an essential criterion for 84% of Romanians (81% overall) according to the same sources. He no longer accepts to work intensively for long periods. Advanced technology and AI are changing the way we work.
Employees want autonomy and get involved in projects taking into account the associated positive emotion. The reflex of the man who says “in my time” is to react promptly, since what I like became a criterion for what is in our interest, of the company that contains you and in which you decided to come?
These changes bring significant challenges. How do you motivate these employees? How do you keep them engaged and productive? Traditional solutions no longer work. We need innovative approaches adapted to the current context.
The challenges of new generations of employees
Young employees emphasize work-life balance. They are less willing to sacrifice free time for work. This is a major change from previous generations. In addition, he prefers working remotely. The classic office is still attractive two, maximum three times a week.
Flexibility in working hours is important. Recent employees, it’s 2024, want to manage their time as they see fit. It no longer accepts the strict control of employers. They want to set their own rhythms. How would these personal decisions affect the company’s competitiveness in the global market?
AI and automation are becoming increasingly important. Employees use these technologies to make their work easier. This changes traditional work dynamics. Productivity no longer depends on hours spent at the office. Employee engagement depends on their genuine interest in the work. This creates challenges for employers.
How do you create an attractive work environment? How do you motivate employees to be productive and engaged? Innovative and effective solutions are needed.
Methods to motivate new generations of employees
Gamification of work
Gamification is an effective method to motivate employees and improve their work engagement. By integrating elements of play into daily activities, gamification turns work into a more engaging and rewarding experience.
For example, you can create friendly competitions or gamified reward systems for employee achievements. This approach not only increases motivation, but also encourages collaboration and healthy competition among employees.
By participating in gamified activities, employees feel motivated to push their limits and achieve their goals. It’s a fun and interactive way to learn and grow professionally.
Through games and gamified activities, employees can improve their skills and knowledge in a fun and stimulating way. This can include simulations of real work situations or challenges that test their skills in a challenging and engaging way.
Recognition and appreciation
Recognition is central to intrinsic motivation. Employees want to feel appreciated and valued. Recognition can be simple, but very effective. Providing positive feedback and public thanks can have a big impact.
A study showed that 69% of employees are more engaged if they are appreciated. Recognition contributes to employee satisfaction and loyalty. For example, hold monthly events to recognize achievements. Publicly valued employees feel more motivated and engaged.
Development opportunities
Young employees are motivated by professional development opportunities. Invest in training and development programs. About 87% of millennials and GenZs consider professional development a crucial factor in staying in a job.
Google is a great example of this. The company offers employees courses and continuous development programs. Employees have access to valuable resources to improve their skills.
Providing mentorship and coaching is also essential. Employees benefit from personalized career development guidance. Thus, they feel more valued and motivated to contribute to the success of the organization.
In conclusion
The intrinsic motivation of employees requires an approach adapted to new realities. The current generation values flexibility and autonomy. Technology and AI are changing the way we work. Traditional solutions are no longer effective. Gamification, recognition and personal development are innovative solutions. These methods increase engagement and productivity. Employees feel valued and motivated to achieve their goals. Investing in employee motivation is investing in the company’s success.
Alina Făniță este CEO și Partener al PKF Finconta. A lucrat cu companii multinaționale sau firme antreprenoriale din domenii diverse de activitate, pentru a le oferi servicii de audit financiar, due diligence, restructurări de grupuri, audit intern și alte servicii conexe activității de control intern. Este membră a celor mai prestigioase asociații profesionale din domeniu: ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants), CECCAR (Corpul Experților Contabili și Contabililior Autorizați din România), CAFR (Camera Auditorilor Financiari) și IIA (Institute of Internal Auditors). A absolvit EMBA Asebuss la Kennesaw State University, a fost trainer pentru cursuri IFRS și este invitată ca expert la numeroase conferințe de business. alina.fanita@pkffinconta.ro
