 Today's workplace contains an unprecedented mixture of four generations of workers, each bringing a unique perspective on the "soft cost rewards" desired from employers. Because employers have finite resources with which to compete for talent, they must understand the generations and what matters most to them, and what employers can do to motivate different generations of workers. Below is a brief overview of what motivates each generation and what each values the most: Generation Y Motivators - “You can make a valuable contribution here.”
- “We want to get you ‘up-to-speed’ quickly.”
- “You can work with bright, creative people and mentors.”
Most-Valued Rewards - Learning and development opportunities
- Credible and positive role models
- Work/life balance
Generation X Motivators - “We look at your results, not how many hours you’re in the office.”
- “You do particularly well at this and we want to give you an opportunity to learn and grow.”
- “We don’t take ourselves too seriously and try to have some fun along the way.”
Most-Valued Rewards - Skill development and real-time performance feedback
- Immediate, tangible recognition rewards
- Flexible work arrangements and positive work environments
Boomers Motivators - “Your contribution is important and unique.”
- “We need you.”
- “You’re one of us.”
Most-Valued Rewards - Retirement planning assistance and flexible retirement options
- Training
- Politically acceptable time off, including sabbaticals
To learn more, read Communicating Rewards Across Generations, an article from Benefits Quarterly by Leah Reynolds, the national practice leader for Total Rewards Communication at Deloitte Consulting LLP. In this article, Leah describes how to understand each generation and make your company a great place to attract and retain leading talent. Related Content:
Overview: Human Capital
Overview: Chief Human Resources Officer Center
Your Issue: Talent
Overview: Start a Dialogue – Communicating to the Generations  Subscribe to receive human capital insights from Deloitte.
As used in this document, ‘Deloitte’ means Deloitte LLP (and its subsidiaries). Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of the legal structure of Deloitte LLP and its subsidiaries.
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