Columnist

It’s time to make way for millennial managers

A recent survey conducted by Reed Commercial aimed to find out what influence previous bosses and managers had on the new wave of managerial style. The results showed that a huge 27% of bosses and franchise owners were aged between 25-34, with 35-44 being the highest age range to take the most senior positions.

These results highlight the rise of millennial managers in all industries and with over 51% of the 25-34 year olds surveyed identifying as franchisees, millennial managers and business owners looks set to keep on growing.

The big question is how this new generation of bosses is going to affect business as we know it. We took a closer look at some of the answers from the survey, to see what areas millennial managers are looking to improve on and what they’ve learned from previous employers.

Improved communication

The results of the survey revealed that one of the main issues workers had with their horrible bosses, was lack of communication. The arrogance and inability to listen to their team was one of the main reasons employees moved on to be their own boss. When asked what they learned from the lack of communication in their previous role, one participant said:

“I know I want to motivate staff with positive steps, not bullying and pushing, I want them to feel appreciated”

Millennial managers have identified the importance of the softer management approach. Much like the hard sell, pushy styles of managing no longer work with the newer generation of employees. These new managers know that to get the most out of their staff, they have to form strong and respectful relationships.

Flexible working and a better work/life blend

“I make sure my employees are happy and I give them flexible schedules that suit their life/family.”

The rise of flexible working hours and a greater focus on work/life balance has already begun, with startups and smaller companies already seeing the benefits in productivity and employee morale.

With the increasing issue of mental health and stress in the workplace, employees health and happiness is becoming a priority for businesses. A flexible work schedule has already shown to improve the amount of unauthorised absences and sick days taken by employees, which also saves money for the business in the long run.

Creating a work community

Millennial managers are using their improved communication and flexible working structure to create a more community feel in the workplace. Productivity and general morale dips when the office is at war with each other. More energy is being put into creating a friendly and hospitable environment for employees, helping to keep workers happy and motivated to come into work. One survey participant described how they changed their management style to help keep employee relations strong:

“I made sure that I would be a more approachable boss and that I would treat my staff with respect and understanding”

The new era of millennial managers are better communicators, more approachable and focused on creating a happy and productive working environment. When reviewing the results from the survey, it was clear that the old generation of bosses showed to be too arrogant, too self important and too distanced from the employees they are supposed to be supporting and managing.

This new chapter of business shows to have a greater employee focus and values quality over quantity. The question is, will this have a positive effect on business? Or will putting the employee needs first have a damaging effect on the profitability of businesses?

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Kat Kynes .