Understanding Millennial Retention: A Case Study Discovering Effective Millennial Employee Retention Strategies at a Nonprofit Organization in Southern California

Abstract

In this study, the problem addressed was the lack of practical retention strategies that can be used to retain millennial employees in the nonprofit sector. Using a qualitative study, the purpose was to discover retention strategies to influence an increase of the retention of millennial employees at a nonprofit organization in Southern California. To gather necessary data for the study the investigative research theory and administrative theory were used as the framework. Video interviews were conducted, recorded, and then analyzed using the five-step process for qualitative research methodology. The recordings were transcribed and coded then used for data analysis to discover themes. The themes found through data indicated that the millennial generation is looking for advancement, philanthropy, education, work–life balance, and a healthy work environment from their workplace, which contribute to their retention at the nonprofit organization. Current data indicate that the millennial employees at a nonprofit organization in Southern California are effectively retained through career advancement, organization mission and outreach, educational opportunities, and a positive workplace. Recommendations from the results of the study are for nonprofit organizational leaders to understand their retention strategies to continue to have successful retention with the millennial generation in the future.