Current statistics forecast millennials overtaking baby boomers as the nation’s largest living generation by 2019, with projected numbers climbing well over 73 million. Examining today’s workforce reveals a similar trend. Millennials have already surpassed baby boomers, making up 35 percent of today’s employees. Yet as businesses adapt to the shifting demands of a new generation of workers, they can’t neglect the needs of current employees. Luckily, the modernization of key infrastructure can address the needs of these two different populations. One modernization includes communication tools.
Baby boomers and millennials alike experienced a boom of technological innovations while growing from childhood to adulthood. While the complexity of such solutions may differ, businesses can provide options that offer an equal sense of familiarity to both generations. Ninety four percent of millennials own a smartphone device, compared to 73 percent of baby boomers, according to a recent study. However, 21 percent of baby boomers own a basic cell phone device, compared to only 6 percent of millennials. While both age groups have quickly embraced the smartphone era, a substantial portion of baby boomers still place significance on only the most basic communication features. For businesses interested in upgrading their communication tools, they may want to select a solution supporting both generations’ preferences.
Flexibility
Most people find mobile-oriented communication valuable. Having a communication solution that can adapt to fit the needs of a dynamic office environment is critical. The flexibility and mobility of cordless phone solutions enables employees to take calls from anywhere in the office—from a desk, warehouse or hallway—without the hindrance of a set location. In addition to providing increased mobility, cordless phone solutions maintain many of the same features of traditional desksets, such as large display screens and programmable feature keys. Cordless phones deliver a feeling of familiarity to baby boomers while meeting the needs of millennials, providing a flexible solution that addresses the demands of both generations of employees in the workplace.
Simplicity
Because a telecommunications company needs to physically install new lines, expanding traditional phone services can translate into a timely and costly process. Session Internet Protocol (SIP) can serve as a smart alternative. The SIP communications protocol allows for the controlling of voice, video and instant messaging applications over Internet Protocol networks without the need for installing new physical lines. By adopting a SIP solution, an organization can easily add or drop additional virtual phone lines on an as-needed basis. They can simply open a new line via a VoIP vendor and connect a handset with any Internet point. Employees who work remotely (many millennials like the flexibility of working from home) can have a dedicated internal phone number and extension, allowing for seamless integration into existing communication networks. A SIP-compatible phone can operate on most vendors’ PBX systems that support SIP signaling. This means businesses with remote offices in multiple locations can easily take advantage of digital dialing and other network enabled features like call forwarding and transfer.
Reliability
Regardless of a team’s technical experience, a dependable warranty offers peace of mind. Phones with seamless setup and plug-and-play hardware also help reduce technical issues. The dependability and support of a SIP deskset can save time and money for an entire team by removing the need for ongoing IT support. Businesses that invest in reliable SIP service can keep up with customer and employee demands. Although most millennials and baby boomers use cell phones for personal use, relying solely on mobile for business poses a risk from a reliability standpoint. When dialing or answering an important business call, mobile users may experience weak cell service or dropped calls. SIP-based telephony solutions ensure more stable communication when it matters most.
Businesses must adapt and improve existing communication infrastructure to better support all employees, while still maintaining operational excellence and supporting continued growth. The many benefits of SIP-based communication tools appeal to both baby boomers and millennials in the workforce. The flexibility, simplicity, and reliability of SIP solutions help employees become more productive, and ultimately help businesses thrive.