When writing previously about employee engagement, I discussed how companies can encourage employees to be engaged by taking steps to connect them with the organization. We also know that, as a group, millennials tend to look for ways to connect with their employers and co-workers in ways that go beyond whatever product or service they are delivering at work.
This article describes a start-up that provides experiences for groups of employees to help encourage engagement in a way that is enticing to millennials. This includes unique experiences they can together and being involved in community service.
Of course, this type of thing is not brand new. Companies have been involved with stalwart social service organizations like United Way and Red Cross for many years. But, I think it is fair to say that millennials are looking for something a bit more active than fundraising and giving blood (both worthy endeavors, by the way).
Companies do not need to outsource their engagement activities and management can brainstorm things that would appeal to their employees and fit with their culture. But, this does show how companies are trying to get younger workers more engaged by experiencing intrinsic rewards (feelings of accomplishment) rather than extrinsic ones (here is a thing for doing well). It also underlines how it is important to proactively create engagement you want to improve teamwork and reduce turnover.