Skip to Content

Millennials and Gen Xers agree on what makes a great workplace

June 28, 2016 Blog 3 min read
Plante Moran earned a spot on two lists: 20 Best Workplaces for Gen X’ers and 100 Best Workplaces for Millennials. Here’s what staff from both generations had to say about why they love working here.

warm photo of a team working on technology 

Fortune.com and Great Place to Work® released two lists today: the 20 Best Workplaces for Gen X’ers and the 100 Best Workplaces for Millennials. I’m happy to say that Plante Moran was included on both of these lists.

As a Plante Moran lifer, I’m pretty confident in the firm’s ability to accommodate the needs of staff from all generations, but I realize I might be a little biased. And while I’d like to think I have a good idea of what’s important to both Gen Xers and Millennials, I thought it would be interesting to seek out staff feedback and learn more about why both of these generations have chosen a career at Plante Moran.

I was expecting to hear a lot about the firm’s flexibility and generous PTO policy, but the feedback went deeper than that. 

I have to admit, I was a bit surprised by some of the comments. I was expecting to hear a lot about the firm’s flexibility and generous PTO policy, but the feedback went deeper than that. Here’s what staff from both generations had to say about why they love Plante Moran:

“Our open door policy isn’t a glorified suggestion box — it’s real. Even with a firm of our size, we have access to leaders who not only give us a voice, but listen and consider what we have to say. As I’ve progressed in my career, these leaders have not only helped me identify the career path I wanted, but they’ve taught me how to be an effective leader.” Louis Sands, Associate, Generation X

“Plante Moran’s culture creates a supportive environment where you’re surrounded by a team. While this support system makes it easier to manage challenging projects and difficult situations, it also gives me the courage to step out of my comfort zone and take on new things. Knowing that there’s never a shortage of help, guidance, and understanding can make a huge difference in a career.” Donna Hanson, Partner, Generation X

“When I joined Plante Moran out of college, the firm exposed me to several areas of accounting and, early on, let me choose the path that was right for me. As a result, I’m passionate about the work I do, and the firm continues to encourage and support that passion while helping me grow in my career.” Kurt Piwko, Senior Associate, Millennial

“I never feel alone at Plante Moran –– I know there’s always someone looking out for me and my career. The firm makes it easy to find mentors that offer meaningful advice and support.” Jenny Miranda, Staff, Millennial

“After the dot.com bubble burst, I shifted from a career in technology to one in wealth management. When I started at Plante Moran I was surprised to find the firm’s culture has many of the attributes I appreciated in the technology world: innovative, dynamic thinking, and willingness to try new things. Plante Moran encourages and appreciates the ideas we bring to the table, and gives us the opportunity and support to pursue them.” Mandy Chardoul, Senior Associate, Generation X

“I feel like Plante Moran really cares about me — not just my job performance, but the whole person. They want me to be happy in both my personal and professional life and provide me with the support I need to make that possible.” George Bloomfield, Staff, Millennial

It seems that above all else, both Plante Moran Gen Xers and Millennials appreciate a supportive culture and the freedom to navigate their career. Even as a Baby Boomer, that’s certainly something I can relate to.

What do you love about your workplace?

Related Thinking

Professional photo of Jim Proppe.
April 10, 2024

A grand experiment, 100 years in the making

Article 3 min read
Doctor sitting at a desk using a computer
December 28, 2023

Finding meaning in the “why:” Delta Dental’s plan for an enduring organization

Article 6 min read
Top down view of a rowing team rowing through the water.
April 3, 2023

Alix James: Leading through change in midmarket manufacturing

Article 6 min read