Younger workers require reengagement after years of increasing disillusionment

Recent data reveals alarming declines in engagement among millennial and Gen Z employees over the past few years. Gallup found engagement rates fell 7 points for older millennials and 5 points for younger millennials/Gen Z since 2020. In contrast, baby boomers grew slightly more engaged.

Younger workers feel increasingly disconnected, with less sense of purpose, opportunities to develop, and caring relationships at work. This detachment makes them more likely to job hunt. Reengaging younger staff requires clearer vision/values, better manager coaching, more in-person time for development, and listening to their ideas.

The generational engagement gap poses retention risks if unaddressed as millinerals enter management and become increasingly critical for firm success. While the instinct can be to clash over different expectations and the sense of entitlement, engaging young employees is both a business and societal opportunity to strengthen workforces. Fostering stronger mentorship connections, providing clear opportunities for growth and having clear areas of flexibility is key to preventing a "lost generation"unable to thrive in the workforce.