There’s movement at the station as Australian businesses usher in the new face of agriculture’s workforce.
It’s a generation that’s been much maligned, but by 2025 Millennials are set to make up 75% of the workforce. They’re a crucial lynchpin to a business’s future success, but with that success is going to come a lot of change.
According to PWC, this is the first time in history that so many generations are co-existing in the workforce – a unique cultural challenge. Of course, an organisation’s success is dependent on its people. So how can you make sure you’re engaging with the changing expectations of your people?
Baby Boomers (Born 1946 -1964)
Boomers are the founding generation of the current work environment. They value flat structures, democratic cultures and a “team environment”. Having been in the workforce for 40+ years, Boomers tend to be comfortable with the status quo.
Generation X (Born 1965-1979)
The anti-institution generation, employees in this age bracket are now likely to be in higher positions. They grew up independent, self-reliant, and wary of Boomer values. The work culture has already shifted to accommodate Gen Xers, who work best in workplaces that are positive, fun, fast-paced, flexible, and informal (no ties, no jackets).
Millennials (Born 1980-1996) & Generation Z (Born 1996+)
The largest generation represented in the workplace is Millennials. With Gen Z hot on their heels. While there are a lot of differences between the two generations, they also have a lot in common when it comes to the workplace.
Millennials are the most diverse adult generation the western world has ever seen. Organisations must work to understand their values and expectations. Currently, understanding of Millennials in the workplace is poor. The media and older generations believe they are lazy, selfish, and obsessed with their phones. However, 40 per cent participated in volunteer work over the last year, 73 per cent reported working more than 40 hours a week, and 96 per cent would rather talk face to face when it comes to their careers.
Upward momentum, growth opportunities, and balance are among the top things Millennials and Gen Z are actively looking for in a workplace – and they’ll leave if they don’t find it. In fact, Millennials move positions an average of 4 times in their first decade in the workforce.
Pay is the primary reason Millennials and Gen Z’s leave their employers. Providing excellent remuneration, true work/life balance, and learning opportunities will help attract and retain skilled Millennials and Gen Z employees.
Sources: PWC, Deloitte, Forbes
Image: AgriShots