The Answer to Greater Leadership and Employee Productivity

OK, I’m sick and tired of listening to CEO’s complain about the Millennial generation’s lack of work ethic. Enough!

You know the litany – the younger generation’s neediness, their lack of loyalty, their lack of “people skills,” and of course, their propensity for frequent job change.

“I don’t want to be their friend; I want to be their boss. Just do the [expletive deleted] work!” a frustrated CEO exclaimed at one of my leadership workshops.

“Wow,” I thought to myself, “No wonder this guy is struggling. I’d hate to work for him, too!”

Driving home after the presentation, I wondered what was missing that made the recruiting and retention of millennials so frustrating. Then, I recalled a conversation I had with my 21-year-old son as we discussed his future job opportunities. There was wisdom there for me.

A Team Focused Workplace With a Cause

You see, my son isn’t interested in working for a large corporation where he is just another employee on a career track. He grew up in a time when the employee-employer contract was broken by repeated layoffs whenever earnings per share dipped below projections. Loyalty was no longer reciprocal.

His perspective on the employee-employer relationship is far different than mine. He seeks a position in a smaller firm where he can build relationships and produce meaningful work. He didn’t mention that he’d have 15 jobs in his career. He didn’t’ mention money. He didn’t mention that he wanted hand-holding from his boss.

The fact is, he wants what every employee from Boomer to Millennial deeply desires. You see, we all seek the opportunity to be part of a community committed to a noble purpose.

What Are You Doing to Create a Community and Purpose?

That’s it. It's something greater than ourselves. Something that makes us engaged and committed. Something that can satisfy our basic financial needs and challenge us to make a positive contribution to the world. After a certain point, it isn’t about the money. Sounds like the Millennials are just like the rest of us.

So, CEO’s stop your whining. Instead, ask yourself, “What am I doing to create connection, community, and purpose in my company?”

I’ve answered that question with over 50 leadership teams and the results are amazing. Once answered, these teams find talent lining up to be part of their adventure. It’s time to stop complaining and start thinking. Figure out the “Why” of your company and you’ll be amazed at “Who” shows up!