There is a lot of talk about generational differences in the workforce. How are Alphas different from Gen Z and Millennials? While the workforce is changing, key principles of managing and motivating employees has not. As experts in Human Resources (HR), the Davidson Group provides customized solutions for clients in a wide range of industries across the Southeast.

Let’s discuss how to motivate employees – regardless of their age. When younger employees join your organization, they are really looking for the same things that previous generations were looking for. They want interesting, challenging work in an environment that is safe, positive and rewarding.

The six primary categories of motivators that determine whether a job is “interesting” to an individual haven’t changed. Thankfully, motivators can be measured in job candidates to ensure a good fit for your organization. The Davidson Group specializes in benchmarking potential candidates.

There are six motivators. Each one comes with a unique focus and accompanying question.

  • Utilitarian – is this individual motivated by money?
  • Individualistic – is the person driven by the pursuit of power and influence?
  • Theoretical – is this individual inspired by a natural pursuit of knowledge?
  • Traditional – is this individual motivated by the desire to maintain unity, order and tradition?
  • Aesthetic – is this person influenced by the pursuit of form, harmony and symmetry?
  • Social/Altruistic – is this person inspired by personal connection and helping others?

Rather than focus on what they need to do to attract and retain different aged employees, organizations should focus on simply building a great organizational culture. They should hire people whose motivators align with the position, which they are hiring them and the culture that they wish to reinforce. If an organization is built on trust, mutual respect, managerial credibility, opportunity and fairness, it will attract and retain great workers of all ages.
Contact the Davidson Group to hear how our targeted HR programs measure and improve organizational culture.