When it comes to working life, it is clear that millennials are very different to the generations that came before them. In order to support and manage this type of talent, it is essential to address the generational differences and understand their unique motivations and behavior in the workplace.

Millennials share a common goal: they want to make a difference at work. Given the significant motivational differences with this generation, current leaders must consider a new approach to managing these employees. Work forms a strong part of millennial’s identity, and this needs to be accounted for in the way they are managed.

1. Focus on advancement

Millennials consider promotion and career advancement as fundamental to their existence in the workplace, as well as the opportunity to develop their skill set. Managers need to focus not just on what these employees can bring to the business, but how the organization can support millennials in the next stages of their professional growth.

This generation is not only interested in their own advancement, but the idea that everything is progressing forward collectively. Tasking millennials with creating innovative solutions to existing processes and problems will increase job satisfaction, whilst contributing to the wider growth and progress of the organization. Creating a progression structure that clearly defines in black and white what is required to progress eliminates discretion, bias, ambiguity and gives millennials clear targets to aim for. Furthermore, they don’t want to wait years for there next promotion. In our instant gratification world of social media, instant communication and smartphones this is reflected in millennials getting frustrated easily if they don’t see the roadmap to their next promotion.

2. Encourage feedback from management

Millennials like to know where they stand, and how they are performing in relation to their goals and aspirations. Whether it is constructive criticism or just praise for a job well done, this group appreciates feedback. A continued dialogue and feedback on their work is critical to their self-development. The mentality behind this is similar to that of advancement – millennials like to feel that they are always moving forward.