Companies seeking to hire talent should consider tailoring their job descriptions to suit millennials. The millennial generation is largest in the workforce and the most educated generation in history. Newsweek reported that in 2015 more than 2.9 million people entered the workforce with a bachelor's degree or better. These educated and eager graduates are entering the corporate world at a time when unemployment rates are the lowest in seven years. You, as a hiring manager, can capitalize on this demographic.
When writing a job description geared towards young professionals, consider the following:
Include Humor
The millennials grew up in era where humor and irreverence is a regular part of advertising and culture. They will be attracted to a job posting with a creative or humorous flair as long as it isn’t snarky or crass.
Sell Them on the Challenge
Millennials grew up in the fast-paced technological era and are accustomed to multitasking. While many workers of the past were perfectly content doing mundane tasks for hours on end as long as it payed the bills, millennials thrive on balancing three tasks at once and are only more inspired by a challenge. Include the words, fast-paced, dynamic, and multi-faceted in the advertisement. Give them a sense that the job will match their energy level and need for a diverse day-to-day job experience.
Stress the Growth Opportunities
Goldman Sachs, who has aggressively been pursuing millennials, found that 82% are willing to relocate providing the job is right. This generation needs to know they’re going places and that there is growth potential involved. Stress phrases similar to “cross-functional training,’ career growth,’ or ‘promotion from within culture.’ They are ready to take your company to the next level if you are willing to do the same for them.
Show How You’re Giving Back
This generation is more socially conscience than generations past. They like to know they’re part of something bigger and that the company they work for is socially conscious and gives back. Make sure your postings or website displays your company’s community involvement and causes it supports. These young workers are not just looking for a job, but also a way to improve the world.