HRM Solutions for Retaining Millennials in Western Societies

Abstract

Organizations and researchers in Western societies are finding employees belonging to the Millennial generation are harder to retain than were employees of previous generations. Using generation theory for the foundation, this paper first looks at the literature discussing whether generational cohorts should continue to be defined as nationally bounded entities, or whether there are now ‘global generations’ in existence. Then, factors that decrease employee turnover are explored. Using social exchange theory and the norm of reciprocity as the basis, the literature suggests affective commitment leads to reduced turnover intentions. Two major constructs found to increase affective commitment are perceived supervisor support (PSS) and perceived organizational support (POS). Finally, human resource management (HRM) antecedents of PSS and POS identified as important by Millennials in Western societies are submitted as potential solutions for retaining employees of the Millennial generation.