MOTIVATION Best Practices for the

Multi-Generational Workforce

HOW DO YOU MOTIVATE A MULTI-GENERATIONAL WORKFORCE?

Although each individual employee is di�erent, there are certain governing principles that help motivate every worker, regardless of their age. While each generation responds slightly di�erently to these

principles, it’s important to maintain an environment where everyone feels valued.

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Statistics show that Millennials, those born between 1980 and 2000, will soon become the largest segment in the U.S. workforce. While they may seem to have unique needs when it comes to motivation, there are more similarities than di�erences across generations. If you focus on that, you’ll be far more successful.

http://blog.octanner.com/webinars/3-simple-tips-to-motivatie-employees-across-generations

MOTIVATION THROUGH RECOGNITION

A recent global study by the O.C. Tanner Institute found that “employees, regardless of age, are more engaged, driven, and connected to the company when they’re recognized for their contributions. They have better work relationships too.”

http://blog.octanner.com/leadership/5-ways-to-connect-with-a-multigenerational-workforce

1. Build good relationships

2. Encourage feedback and value it

3. Increase accountability and trust

4. Create a culture of respect

5. Give meaningful recognition

TIPS FOR

MOTIVATING THE MULTI-

GENERATIONAL WORKFORCE:

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1. BUILD GOOD RELATIONSHIPS

As we build good relationships and increase communication between employees and leaders, we also increase productivity within the company. A good relationship is one where employees feel comfortable, respected, and valued. As employees grow more connected to their employer, there will be greater communication and sharing of ideas with those who are leading them.

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Your team cares less about what generation you’re from and more about how you are as a leader. A great leader not only knows what to do but shares with the team why it’s important to do it.

—Michelle M. Smith

http://blog.octanner.com/webinars/3-simple-tips-to-motivatie-employees-across-generations

2. ENCOURAGE AND VALUE FEEDBACK

Great leaders are able to address the individual needs and preferences of each employee. They also value feedback. Encourage an open relationship with your employees so they feel comfortable sharing their insights with you about what’s working and what’s not. Creating a comfortable environment is essential in helping your employees grow within the company no matter the generation.

3. INCREASE ACCOUNTABILITY AND TRUST

Younger employees want to be held accountable for their work, which can be a huge motivating factor for them. They also want their work to be recognized and know that what they are doing will benefit the company. As for older employees, they want to know that the company trusts them to do good work and make their own decisions. This increase in trust helps them feel confident in the tasks they are given.

http://blog.octanner.com/leadership/5-ways-to-connect-with-a-multigenerational-workforce

4. CREATE A CULTURE OF RESPECT

Everyone deserves to feel that they are respected and valued. As you create a culture of respect you’ll be able to cater to all generations. Leading by example will be the foundation for a harmonious work environment among the company.

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If employees respect a person’s leadership, they are more prone to put those same leadership qualities into practice. Empowering employees to make decisions also builds trust. When you show employees you trust their knowledge and skills, you allow them to make smart decisions that benefit the company.

—Bill Mixon

http://www.forbes.com/sites/lisaquast/2012/09/17/5-tips-for-employers-to-earn-respect-from-employees/

5. GIVE MEANINGFUL RECOGNITION

Less experienced employees (those under age 25) want recognition to come across as genuine and personal. More experienced employees (ages 26 and up) need their recognition to be specific, based on performance, and given for clear reasons.

—David Sturt

http://blog.octanner.com/leadership/5-ways-to-connect-with-a-multigenerational-workforce

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When it comes down to it, no matter their age, everyone wants to be recognized. As you reinforce these ideas in your company, you’ll find it easier to keep your employees motivated. Remember there are more similarities than di�erences when it comes to motivating a multi-generational workforce.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

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O.C. TANNER AND THE O.C. TANNER INSTITUTEO.C. Tanner, a 2015 Fortune 100 Best Places To Work For company, helps the world’s best organizations create great work environments by inspiring and appreciating great work. Thousands of clients globally use the company’s cloud-based technology, tools, awards, and education services to engage talent, increase performance, drive goals, and create experiences that fuel the human spirit.

The O.C. Tanner Institute regularly commissions research and provides a global forum for exchanging ideas about recognition, engagement, leadership, culture, human values, and sound business principles.