New Starters

Over the last 3 months, I have spent quite a bit of time in the company of people in their early 20’s who are just at the beginning of their careers. Working in what could be classed as “dream” brands/companies and “large successful businesses”.

This is what I have learnt:

• They aren’t connected to their employer.
• They don’t/can’t see progress.
• They are thinking about moving jobs prematurely. (within a year)
• Their days are task focussed with gaps in between with no focus.
• They aren’t learning about the whole business – just their section.

Why?
They work from home. Usually their parents’ home and often in a different location to the rest of their team. They are encouraged to go in once or twice a week but if no one else does, it doesn’t make sense.

The problem:

• This could cause long term problems for any business. We know that people are the most important asset and any insecurity in your team will affect your customers.
• You will have to spend more time & money on recruiting and training staff and you may have less employee engagement/loyalty.

The solution:

• Don’t throw away hybrid working but put some structure in it. If you ask people to come in twice a week make sure that it happens!
• Create a buddy/mentor system for all new employees and keep it in place for 6month, maybe a year – maybe longer.
• Encourage your team mates to get involved in industry events and industry networking groups. The Market Research Society has a range of special purpose groups where they can grow, learn and have fun!

As the latest group of graduates and school leavers head into your business and teams, consider not just the function they are going to fulfil for you but also their connection to the business and their team.nection to the business and their team.