A recent report has revealed almost 90% of Millennials working in Australia and New Zealand want to head abroad to find work.

The study found only 25% of the 400 employers questioned offer opportunities to travel overseas for work*.

Employment Office Managing Director Tudor Marsden-Huggins says workplaces must become more flexible to accommodate the rising number of MIllennial employees, who will make up 50% of the workforce by 2020.

“There’s no doubt Millennials are more willing to move around than previous generations. If employers don’t give them the option to explore overseas work and travel, they will lose them.

“Whether it’s through global mobility opportunities with your company, or through a sabbatical program, Millennials need to know they have the option to explore career and travel, while still being able to pick their career up where they left off in Australia,” Marsden-Huggins said.

Employment Office runs their own global mobility program, giving employees the option to apply for openings in the company’s Northern American offices.

“This program has allowed us to keep a lot of great talent in the business who would have otherwise gone elsewhere. As an added benefit, we have also found the program has helped to break down the barriers between our offices across the world, and provide our young people with invaluable new skills and experiences.

“Millennials are looking for an organisation which can support them in meeting their personal goals, rather than simply offering a pay cheque.

“If you can accommodate for your MIllennial staff members and their desire to live abroad for work for a period of time then you’re far more likely to retain them as long-term employees ,” Marsden-Huggins said.

To retain Gen Y workers, organisations must understand what is important to this demographic of workers. Millennials want a work-life balance above all else. Money isn’t everything to them so employers must provide opportunities for travel, further education and hobbies to attract and retain top talent.

The 2015 Future Leaders Index found this group of employees expect the norm to be flexible working arrangements, contract-based assignments and global outsourcing.

In this truly global job market candidates are no longer restricted by borders and Millennials are itching to explore the world as they travel. Make sure you give them the option to see the world, and return to your business!

*Robert Walters 2015