Bridging the Generation Gaps Between Nurses in the Workplace

Generational differences in the workforce have always existed. Nurses of vastly different ages, world views and levels of experience are working side by side, not always understanding their co-workers from another generation. There are the:

The Veterans (born between 1925-1945). Identified by their longevity, the nurses born during these years value hard work, financial conservatism, and tend to be cautious.

Baby Boomers (1946-1964). Boomers value individualism and creative expression, have been known to rewrite the rules, and exhibit a strong work ethic, but the work must be considered meaningful.

Generation X (1963-1980). This generation values self-reliance and work-life balance, is less loyal to corporate culture, and prizes technological competence.

Millennial Generation (1980-2000). Technology and instant communication are important features of day-to-day life.

But no matter which group a nurse belongs to, he or she can learn to communicate better with colleagues by recognizing subtle generational differences and customizing communication accordingly. For a more in-depth explanation of the different generations, and how to communicate effectively with other nurses born from a different generation, click here.