Can you believe that by 2020, your staff could consist of 5 generations? Are you prepared to conquer the generational gap? This is the first time that we’ve ever had that many generations working together—Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Gen X, Millennials (Gen Y) and Gen 2020 (Gen Z). As more people postpone retirement and younger people enter the workforce, we’ll have the most diversified workforce in US history. If you prepare your staff to understand and embrace the different work styles of each generation, this diversity can offer tremendous benefits for your medical practice.
Traditionalists (born 1922-1945) grew up adhering to the rules, so authority and hard work are the norm for them. When you put the rules and objectives in writing, they ‘ll stick to the path you want to follow. They talk about the generational gap, but most of them are prepared to share their knowledge. Respecting their experience is one of the best motivators for Traditionalists.
Baby Boomers (born 1946-1964) are workaholics with little work/family balance in most of their lives. They thrive on personal interaction and championing a good cause. You can expect loyalty and efficiency from these employees. While many of them question authority, they are excellent team players. Money and showing Boomers that they are valued motivates them.
Generation X (born 1965-1980) is entrepreneur minded. Although they want freedom in their work environment, they prefer ongoing feedback about their job performance. Many are naturally skeptical about “why” tasks are done a certain way, especially with today’s technology. Thus, they can help implement efficiencies in your medical practice. Many Gen X people don’t see a generational gap. An atmosphere with the flexibility to ask “why” and a work/family balance can motivate Gen X.
Millennials (born 1981-2000) are also called Generation Y. These people are usually excellent multi-taskers who enjoy communicating via technology (e-mail, voice mail, and social media). While they strive for a work/life balance, they are motivated by meaningful projects with like-minded co-workers. Millennials have the drive and persistence to stay with a challenging project. They prefer a more relaxed work environment with lots of accolades to stay with an employer.
Generation Z (born 2001 – present) embraces diversity and is very open-minded and respectful. They are technology-savvy because they have grown up with Google at their fingertips, games and other electronic gadgets. Gen Z seems to rely on a network of relationships and sharing knowledge. What motivates them? It’s still too early to tell, but it’s predicted that they will be our most high-maintenance staff, which is a change for which many medical offices are unprepared.
If you’re unsure how to train your staff or aren’t prepared to deal with the complexities of the different generations, contact PUMC. Our marketing experts can help you develop a staff training program to span the generations for your medical practice. Don’t let the generational gap conquer your medical practice.