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Misconceptions about Gen Y (Pt. 2): Implementing Performance Management Basics That Benefit All Employees
Written by Buddy Hobart on August 24th, 2009
The other day I wrote about a client who said he would never build a “playground” in order to attract new workers. He was referring to holding games and social events in order to attract Gen Y. A common misunderstanding about managing Gen Y is that you have to hold these types of activities in order to attract and keep younger workers at your company.
In the book we talk about the fact that Gen Y is only asking for what every one wants, nothing more. The fact is, we Baby Boomers, and by extension Gen X, have learned to live without some performance management basics. Gen Y will not live without these basics, at least not for long.
Business leaders should ask themselves two simple questions before implementing any new program…”How will ALL of our employees feel about this program? And, will all of our employees benefit and appreciate this change?”
My advice is to look at things like:
- How can we provide more real time feedback to our employees?
- How can I be more accessible to my team without becoming unproductive?
- Am I (and is the organization) showing the proper respect to our new workforce (and to all workers)?
- Are we letting our folks know where they stand on projects and performance in a timely way?
- Are we still stuck on meaningless annual appraisals (that are really every 15-18 months)?
- Have we implemented a one on one process?
Implementing a REAL performance management system will go much farther than having “Pizza Day” or “Dress Down Friday”. Most of us like pizza, a free lunch and to wear jeans every once in awhile. These things do not bring about lasting change. They are nice and you should do it on occasion. However, if you want lasting change your ENTIRE workforce will embrace, look at improving your performance management systems and processes.
There is no need to build a playground.
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