Today’s workforce has four different generations working together. Each has its own set of values, ideals, traits, and goals. These differences include communication styles, expectations, work ethic, comfort level with technology, perceptions of loyalty, and acceptance of change. If such differences are not understood by all involved, they can lead to a misunderstanding of each other and, ultimately, to conflict. Make it a priority to understand each generation-not only will it help you relate to others outside of your generation, but it will help them relate to you as well.
- The Silent Generation, born before 1945: This generation of nurses makes up about 10% of the workforce today. Growing up, they were taught to rely on the tried and true way of doing things. They believe in dedication, commitment, loyalty, and a hard day’s work. They are respectful of authority, support administration, and work with discipline. Members of this generation prefer to work in large organizations that offer job security and other non-monetary benefits. They recognize that cutting-edge thinking and new technologies will help them stay on top of nursing.
- Baby Boomers, born between 1946 and 1964: This generation represents approximately 45% of today’s workforce. During their formative years, society encouraged them to think as individuals and express themselves creatively. Many Boomers feel that they have already paid their dues and put in the necessary effort to climb up the professional ladder. They are now asking for the respect and recognition they deserve due to their significant contributions.
- Generation X, born between 1965 and 1980: This generation makes up about 30% of the workforce. The first generation to recognize from the beginning that job security is a myth, Gen Xers want to learn useful skills and have a job that will promote their financial security, while still being able to enjoy their leisure time. They anger the Silents and Baby Boomers because of their “free agent” attitude. But this generation has proved itself valuable, getting things done in a smarter, faster, safer way, and changing the workplace for the better for nurses.
- Generation Y/Millenial generation, born between 1980 and 2006: About 15% of the workforce today consists of this generation. Born to the Baby Boomer generation, Gen Yers were encouraged to learn and express themselves. This resulted in high levels of self-confidence. Gen Yers believe that education is the key to their success. They grew up with technology and accept diversity. This generation likes new challenges and opportunities. They are considered to be positive, assertive, civic, and moral individuals. With these traits, the Gen Yers have the potential to be the most productive workforce in history.
Source: Stressed Out About Your First Year of Nursing, HCPro, Inc., 2006.
Have a story about how you bridged the generation gap? We’d love to hear about it. Give us a shout at mbriddon@hcpro.com
December 22nd, 2010 at 7:49 am
Hi, this an amazing information dude. Thankx for sharing! But I’m having trouble with ur rss feed. Fail to subscribe. So anyone else getting same rss issue? Anybody who knows please reply. TQ
December 23rd, 2010 at 10:57 am
Wow! It is like you understand my mind! You seem to know a lot about this, just like you wrote the book in it or something. I think that you can do with some pictures to drive the content home a bit, besides that, this is outstanding blog. A great read. I’ll certainly be back.
December 23rd, 2010 at 11:48 pm
I would like to thnx for the efforts you have put in composing this article. I am hoping the same top-quality article from you in the future as well. In fact your creative writing skill has inspired me to get my own blog now. Really the blogging is spreading its wings quickly. Your write up is a good model of it.
December 24th, 2010 at 12:16 pm
I am impressed, I have to say. Really rarely do I discovered a blog that’s both educational and entertaining, and let me tell you, you’ve hit the nail on the head. Your blog is important; the issue is something that not many people are speaking intelligently about. I’m really happy that I stumbled across this in my search for something relating to this.
December 25th, 2010 at 12:41 am
A brilliant post, I just given this onto a workfellow who was doing a little research on this. And he in fact bought me dinner because I discovered it for him… smile. So let me reword that: Thank you for the treat! But yeah Thanks for spending the time to discuss this, I feel strongly about it and enjoy reading more on this topic. If possible, as you become expertise, would you mind updating your blog with more information? It is extremely helpful for me. Two thumb up for this blog post!
December 29th, 2010 at 6:50 am
Thank you so much for this! I have not been this moved by a blog post for quite some time! You have got it, whatever that means in blogging. Well, You’re definitely someone that has something to say that people need to hear. Keep up the great job. Keep on inspiring the people!
January 4th, 2011 at 1:54 pm
Most of the times i visit a blog I notice that most blogs are amateurish. Regarding your blog,I have to say that you have done a good job here.
January 5th, 2011 at 4:51 am
Hey, great blog you have here, think I came across it on Yahoo but im not sure nowanyway, Ill check back again! Are guests allowed to post here?
January 5th, 2011 at 10:27 am
Thanks for this particular piece of writing. I honestly preferred reviewing it and shall discuss it with individuals.
January 5th, 2011 at 11:13 am
I just got out of nap and I am already reading your post. This signifies something! Really useful information. Thnx!
January 5th, 2011 at 8:29 pm
Great blogger, Thank you for producing the important blog. I found it useful. Kind regards !!
January 6th, 2011 at 2:54 am
Superb data, a great deal of because of the write-up creator. The idea is definitely perplexing in my opinion today, yet around, the particular success plus importance is usually mind-boggling. Actually completely thank you as well as best wishes .!
January 6th, 2011 at 5:55 am
Outstanding blogger, Thnx for writing the outstanding article. I found it informative. Best regards !!
January 7th, 2011 at 4:02 am
acai berry is really helpful and weight loss with it become easy..
January 7th, 2011 at 5:49 am
Playing games should not be as expensive as you think. Why would you buy expensive CDs if you can rent all the game that you want for a very low price? There are other companies that you might want to try.
January 8th, 2011 at 4:34 am
I think the e-cigarette is an outstanding substitute/replacement for standard cigarettes. The e-cigarette mimics more aspects of cigarettes than pills, patches, mints, or gum could ever hope to.
January 10th, 2011 at 9:28 am
Reverse phone lookup finds the caller’s name, address, email, and photos.
January 10th, 2011 at 4:18 pm
I can tell an incredible betterment in your writing, We’ll want to get in touch. Maintain the good function! A person’s producing is incredibly inspirational for someone who is new at all to this products.