Tactics for Recruiting Generation Y
 
Looking to attract more members of Generation Y to your firm? If so, yours is like many other organizations now recognizing that this sizable generation will become an increasingly vital segment of the workforce, especially as more baby boomers retire. To gain insights into the attitudes of this group regarding the workplace, Robert Half International and Yahoo! HotJobs recently commissioned a national survey of more than 1,000 workers ages 21 to 28, the most senior slice of Generation Y. Based on those findings, here are strategies you can use to recruit Millennials:
 
Loosen the purse strings. Gen Y survey respondents said salary is their most important job consideration. Moreover, 33 percent of those polled said financial security is their top career concern, followed by job stability (25 percent) and career satisfaction (23 percent). When asked what factors would most influence them to leave one job for another, “higher pay” topped the list. To ensure that your compensation standards are above or at least on par with competitors in your industry and region, use resources such as the Department of Labor’s Bureau of Labor Statistics and the annual Salary Guides from Robert Half International.
 
Perk up. Promote the learning opportunities your firm offers. Perquisites such as in-house training programs, paid time off to attend professional development events, and mentoring initiatives appeal to Gen Y. Because nearly three-quarters of respondents said it’s likely they will return to school to obtain another degree, consider launching (or expanding) tuition-reimbursement programs.
 
Promote work/life balance. Seventy-three percent of Millennials are concerned about being able to balance a career with personal obligations. Therefore, flexible work arrangements such as telecommuting options, job-sharing and compressed workweeks are particularly attractive to this generation.
 
Reach out in new ways. Gen Y workers are adept users of new media. To paint a vibrant picture of your firm, consider establishing a presence on popular social networking sites such as Facebook and LinkedIn. Also, provide information about working for your company via video or podcast, in addition to more traditional channels.
           
This article is provided courtesy of Robert Half Management Resources, the foremost provider of senior-level accounting and finance professionals on a project or interim basis. For further information, visit Robert Half Management Resources’ website at www.roberthalfmr.com or call 1-888-400-7474.