Millennials — those born from 1981 to 1996 — are not only the largest living generation today but also became the workforce majority at the end of 2015. By the end of 2025, they will make up 75% of the American workforce.
This generation grew up in a time of rapid change, which gives them different priorities and expectations than previous generations. Their unique upbringing and subsequent values are reshaping our economy in almost every way possible.
Think Uber, Fitbit, Airbnb, Etsy, Lululemon and Twitter. Successful companies that continue to adapt as the result of millennial expectations aren’t just changing the products they sell and how they sell them — they also are changing their cultures.
With the exception of family, millennials value health the most. In a recent study, 79% said family was important in their lives, followed by health and wellness at 53%, friends at 39%, spirituality at 31% and career at 27%.
Wellness is a daily, active pursuit for millennials. They are eating healthier and exercising more than previous generations. They smoke less. Almost half consider healthy eating a lifestyle choice as opposed to a goal-driven diet.
Technology has enabled greater access to wellness information and has put personal health monitoring into the palms of their hands. Millennials use apps and technology to stay healthy; and while they are earning less than older generations, they are spending more on health and fitness.
Most of today’s leaders inherited 20th century institutions, which are known for lack of agility and punching a time clock. Institutions where seniority and top-down management rules. Institutions that value profits over people.
Millennials often are criticized for their lack of loyalty or “job hopping,” but it is critical to note they leave their jobs for one key reason — they do not share these industrial-age values. They value education, higher purpose and collaboration across organizational ranks, and they want to be recognized and rewarded for their ideas and creative thinking.
Along with their prioritization of health and wellness, it isn’t a surprise that millennials expect work-life balance. They are more likely than other generations to view work-life balance — 41% — and not enough free time — 36% — as major career concerns. Only 29% of Gen Xers and 20% of baby boomers feel the same.
As organizations develop strategies to attract, engage and retain millennials, here are a few tactics to consider:
Leaders who adopt this “wellness generation” view will be much more successful in attracting, retaining and engaging the most powerful generation in the workforce today.
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Posted In Health Information, Health Plan, Thought Leadership, Workplace Health
Our content is for informational purposes only and should not be relied upon as medical advice. The content is not designed to replace a physician’s medical assessment and medical judgment. As always, please consult first with your physician about health matters. Click here for Terms and Conditions.