I’M A TEAM LEADER OF MILLENNIALS/ GEN Z. HOW CAN I MOTIVATE THEM TO WORK?

DARREN BUCHANAN MANAGING DIRECTOR, HAYS QUEENSLAND

Millennials value a manager who is a coach or mentor. They’re highly entrepreneurial. They value on-the-job upskilling, such as stretch opportunities or a new project. Millennials are also motivated by work/life integration and balance. The oldest members of Generation Z are now entering the workforce. They are even more entrepreneurial. They want a competitive salary and benefits and, just like Millennials, value upskilling. They also have a strong sense of purpose. Focusing on productivity and using technology to provide genuine flexibility will motivate this cohort.

SINEAD HOURIGAN BRISBANE DIRECTOR, ROBERT WALTERS

I was lucky enough, in my younger days, to learn from some wise mentors that you can never (no matter how hard you try) motivate anyone else to work hard. You can definitely inspire them to work through your own diligence, effort, commitment and positivity but motivation is intrinsic and has to come from within. One thing that I do believe is different about these emerging new leaders is they don’t just do things because they are told to (which prior generations grew up with) but ask questions about the why and are not willing to commit without a clear response.

JULIE BARR SENIOR EXECUTIVE CONSULTANT, McARTHUR

I have a friend who advocates for “Team Millennial/GenZ” and understands how to lead this mysterious and often misunderstood generation. The best way to motivate is tie the task to something tangible – give “the why”. Be comfortable being uncomfortable – engage early and often, they like information. You need to enjoy and actively seek out the opportunity to relate to the Millennial generation. My friend advises: “If you can achieve relatability, you will earn credibility, then they will believe what you say, and most importantly, they will trust you!”

DR NERIDA HILLBERG DIRECTOR OF PSYCHOLOGY, FERRIS MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS

We are talking about two distinct generations, so we can’t apply a broadbrush approach. Further, motivation can vary from individual to individual, and can be either intrinsic or extrinsic. Employees who are intrinsically motivated are driven by personal goal attainment and satisfaction. Extrinsic motivation typically involves receiving rewards. From a broader generational view, I’d advise you to motivate both Millennials and Gen Z based on their three common drivers of work/life balance, community/social responsibility, and technology.