With the influx of Millennials coming into the workforce, companies are having to look at more creative ways to attract and retain new candidates. A quick search for articles on Millennials in the workplace will return thousands of hits on everything from generational gaps, motivational tips, how to work with Millennials, and ways to keep new talent. Below are 5 tips that will not only boost attention from Millennial candidates, but also help improve morale for your existing workforce:

1. Recognition and Responsibility

Recognizing those who contribute to the overall benefit of the company provides the feeling of accomplishment that almost every employee desires. Whether it’s a process change, customer feedback, a new account, or personal achievement, giving recognition for a job well done is one of the easiest changes management can make to increase energy levels in the office.

Not only is the new workforce motivated by recognition, but also by responsibility. Across generations, employees want to feel like they are contributing to something greater and want to see that they have a real impact on change. For employees who prove themselves, adding additional responsibilities can not only have a positive impact on their performance, but also inspire them to contribute new innovative ideas.

2. Fun Fridays

There are many different ideas for a fun Friday in the office, but the main point is to give employees something to look forward to throughout the work week. Companies across the country have developed different versions of Friday afternoon fun ranging from casual days, cooking classes, employee outings, or games. The most important thing to consider when planning these events is to make it consistent, ask for employee recommendations, and make it something everyone can participate in.

3. Coffee, Juice, & Water

These three items are quite possibly what motivate me the most. I look forward to having a good cup of coffee in the morning followed by fresh juice and water throughout the day. People are becoming more and more health conscious, so many new workers are not impressed with the junk food and soda pop offered in vending machines. What better way to show you care about your employees’ wellbeing than to offer healthy options as a perk to working with your company? Yes, even coffee has some health benefits.

4. Bring Home to the Office

This doesn’t necessarily mean you need to install “napping” pods, but consider the overall environment in your office. Is there enough natural light? Do employees have the option to bring their pets to work? Have you incorporated comfortable, inviting touch down spaces into your design? Even a little color throughout the office, whether through pictures, rugs, wall coverings, or panels could help bring new-found energy to the workplace.

5. Give Back and Celebrate Local Businesses

My last tip is a little outside the box, but one of my favorites. New and veteran employees can all appreciate wanting to support local businesses, especially if your company is also a local business. Why not bring those businesses to your office? Once a month or quarter have a day which showcases a local business or multiple businesses by setting up a “shop” in your conference room. During the summer months, offer a farmer’s market in the parking lot where employees can shop during their lunch break. HON recently participated in a business day for local middle school students in Muscatine to come and learn about manufacturing, providing an opportunity to tour our buildings and learn about an industry they might not otherwise have exposure to. This is just one of the many ways HON likes to give back to and take pride in its community.

What are some of the perks that you especially enjoy at your office?