Survey finds managers at a crossroads with young workers

Kenya’s population is growing by 2.6 per cent every year, placing it in the top tier of most populated countries in the world.

The rapid growth of a young adult population is expected to present new challenges for employers and a rethink of the benefits structure to one with emphasis on training, coaching and mentoring in place of perks such as car loans.

The challenge for HR managers lies in designing talent management programmes that takes these issues into account and redefine job roles.

“HR needs to focus on creating opportunities for career development, crafting growth plans and creating the right mix of benefits to suit these workers as well as ensuring the work remains challenging,” said Ms Njage.

Although they are ready to take on tough challenges and work towards ambitious goals, Generation Y would prefer to deliver on their obligations in a less stressful work environment.

A key finding of the survey is that Kenya’s Generation Ys have a higher loyalty rating than their peers around the world.

PwC found that 49 per cent of the respondents expect to remain with their current employer for the next 3 to 5 years compared to the global average of 23 per cent.

“The generational mix within the workforce has made management and leadership today even more complex and has created a case for a review of the way in which we work and manage our employees,” said Mr Muchiru.

Statistics indicate that most organisations in Kenya are likely to have a diverse group of employees representing at least three generations – the older Baby Boomers, mid-level Generation X’ers, and the youthful Generation Y.

The age group that is set to change the face of corporate Kenya is currently moving into the labour force setting the stage for older employees to work alongside 20-year-olds.

PwC anticipates that once the economy improves, the Generation Y’s will start acting more like their global counterparts and start frequently changing their jobs and careers, frustrating employers struggling to retain and recruit talented high-performers.