“Millennial workers” — those born between 1980 and 2000 and just now hitting the workforce — represent a significant change from Gen Xers, Baby Boomers, and Veterans. Also known as “Generation Y,” these people grew up on instant messaging, blogging, and the Internet. Tech-savvy Millennials can be a huge boon to companies, but they work differently than older generations. Multitasking is second-nature — they’ll listen to music, talk on the phone, answer email, and send instant messages all at the same time. They typically want to jump into something new and figure it out as they go, rather than reading manuals. They collaborate differently and, really, think differently. To get the most out of these young workers, consider the following:

Allow experimentation When a new technology comes in, hand it over to the Millennials. Let them play with it and figure it out on their own.

Support collaboration and multitasking Millennials use online collaborative instruments as their tools of the trade, employing instruments that previous generations are only vaguely aware of: blogs, Instant Messaging, and Wikis, which are websites that allow people to edit or add content. When possible, management should encourage use of these tools and should do what they can to allow online and interpersonal cooperation.

Foster creativity and variety Millennial workers tend to be highly enthusiastic. If their projects are challenging and varied, this enthusiasm can easily be channeled into their work. If something is new, give it to the Millennials. If it’s practical to allow people to work from home via a virtual private network (VPN) or from remote locations, then do it. Consider flexible schedules and wireless internet access to allow workers to roam the building. Avoid boredom and your Millennial workforce will be much more productive. The change in mentality involves some leaps of faith, but a stimulated Millennial worker is typically a successful one. Ask, “Is the job getting done?”, rather than, “Is he/she putting in the hours?” With these employees, results don’t always correlate with a typical 9 to 5 workday.

Source: www.ciostrategycenter.com

It has been demonstrated that better organizational communication boosts the corporate bottom line (see the October 2006 Marketing Tips). The following are a few specific ideas for fine-tuning your communication for maximum organizational success.

Have clarity of purpose Highly successful companies focus on a select few messages that are constantly and consistently reinforced throughout the organization. Make sure that everyone involved in a program or initiative is clear about the intended outcome and how the company is planning on achieving it.

Provide open, honest sources of information Engender trust between management and employees, within teams, and between customers and the company by letting people know where they can find answers to their questions, presented in a straightforward manner. Plan workshops and feedback sessions, and keep the word out there that inquiries are always encouraged.

Share information effectively The step beyond the willingness to share information is making sure it is available when someone requests it. Ensure that employees are able to easily get the information they need to do their jobs, and that various groups are able to share best practices. Consider formal practices like print campaigns and online information sharing, as well as informal initiatives such as networking events.

No matter how well-designed a communication plan is, it is ultimately effective only when the above criteria are met. Remember, effective communication correlates with a more successful business, so be sure to spend some time evaluating yours.

Source: Deloitte & Touche, A Comparative Review of Communication Programs

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Marcia Hoeck’s recent speaking engagements:

• IABC Phoenix, May 18, 2006
• PDMA Phoenix, August 10, 2006
• NAWBO Phoenix, October 11, 2006

Comments from attendees:

"Very excellent presentation. Probably the best brand presentation I’ve ever seen."

"Very clear message, well organized and useful information."

Interested in having Marcia speak for your organization? Please contact her at 419-472-8808 or marcia@hoeck.net.

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