The challenge of attracting and hiring top talents is nothing new. But in today’s rapidly changing, Generation Y world, the challenge is more significant than ever before.
As a Generation X start-up founder, you may find yourself at a disadvantage when it comes to attracting and retaining top talent. After all, Generation Y is the most educated and technologically savvy generation in history.
Generation X, like myself, is often characterized as cynical and sceptical. But a closer look at the values of Generation X founders reveals a different story in my view. Generation X is marked by a strong sense of independence and individualism. For GenXers, the goal has always been to find their own way in the world, only the sky being the limit. In addition, Generation X is known for its pragmatism and realism. For GenXers, the goal has always been to find solutions to problems, not get lost in ideology or abstraction. This pragmatic approach often leads GenXers to start their own businesses, like me.
So how can you adapt to the changing times and compete for the best and brightest minds, when the technology sector you work in is new and relies on Generation Y staff? Here are a few points I want to share:
1. Review your working environment continuously. Generation Y is looking for an environment that is stimulating, collaborative, and flexible all at the same time. If your workplace doesn’t meet these standards, it’s time for a change.
2. Identify and keep the top 25% performers of your staff. These are the people who are genuinely passionate about their work and are constantly pushing the envelope. Invest in them and they will pay you back tenfold.
3. Talk with your people. Generation Y values open communication and feedback. Regular check-ins will show them that you care about their career development and help you identify any potential problems early on.
Keeping pace with the changing times is key to attracting and retaining top talent. By staying up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies, you’ll be able to tap into new resources and expand your view globally to bring the best talents into your environment to boost your start-up.
I don’t have all the answers when it comes to attracting and hiring top talent, but I am constantly learning and sharing my own experience in the hopes that it will help others. As a Generation X start-up founder, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies so you can compete with the best and brightest minds. By creating a stimulating, collaborative, and flexible work environment, you are more likely to attract top talent who want to be a part of something innovative and exciting, a future they want to live in. And by establishing open communication channels and giving regular feedback, you’ll show your team that you care about their career development. The key is never to stop learning and always keep moving forward
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