What does your firm and a chameleon have in common?
Chameleons are fascinating creatures. They have this uncanny ability to change colour to blend into their surroundings flawlessly. The science behind the magic of how their little bodies are able to do this is remarkable. But have you ever wondered why chameleons do this in the first place?
If you think that chameleons change colour to camouflage themselves as protection from predators, it would be a good guess. You’d be wrong, but it’s understandable why you would naturally think so.
The reality is that chameleons are more like us than you realise. The first reason they change is to simply adapt to their physical environment. The second reason is something we can all relate to; chameleons change colour to express themselves.
Adaptability and self-expression. Aren’t these two characteristics that humans can appreciate? (I suppose we do the same with fashion, our hair and makeup). In business, you need both to thrive. And as a firm who wants to be successful, these are two traits that you will want to remember as you build a modern workforce that impacts your firm’s marketing ability.
According to the Deloitte Millennial Survey, 75% of the global work force by 2025 will be Millennials – a generation who have acquired a rather unsavory reputation. They are said to be spoiled and entitled. However, many of these descriptions are wildly exaggerated, as most stereotypes typically are. As Millennials will soon make up the majority of the available workforce, you need to start changing the narrative and recognise the many benefits of hiring from the pool made up of this younger generation – a demographic that is also said to be excellent multitaskers, tech-savvy, and highly ambitious.
So how do you change to accommodate and motivate this passionate workforce? Think like a chameleon.
Be ready to adapt
According to a FlexJobs Report, Millennials don’t like traditional work environments with 82% of millennials saying they would be more loyal to their employers if they had more flexible work options, such as the ability to work remotely.
While you may not be ready to give them much freedom in choosing where they work from, maybe you can start to explore flexible options that are good for boosting creativity and productivity. Maybe a cultural shift that is more welcoming to Millennials is in order.
And because Millennials are the generation that grew up with technology, adapting to change brought on by innovations is something that will come more naturally to them. In fact, they may be able to teach your older workforce how to be more tech-savvy.
Promote self-expression
One of the biggest benefits of employing Millennials is that you have access to their fresh perspectives. Because not only are Millennials now the largest workforce, it means Millennials also make up the majority of consumers. Yes, your new clients will most likely be Millennials, and you will need your young employees to help generate marketing strategies that they know will appeal to their own demographic.
Their insight will prove to be incredibly valuable as your firm starts to expand and try to attract the generation who will evolve into the new industry leaders. So, make sure to give them the right platform and a voice to express their ideas. Get them to write about it, to create marketing fodder for your next recruit too.