While society is gradually starting to recover from Covid-19, there are certain industries that are still reeling from the unprecedented and unfortunate challenges brought on by the pandemic. The healthcare industry is one of them. During the height of the pandemic, one in every five workers left their jobs, some of which were positions that were held for decades. As younger employees gradually fill these roles, another challenge has emerged. How do healthcare facilities attract and retain Gen Z workers?
Gen Z healthcare workers have different expectations and values than the workforce that preceded them. It’s important for organizations to understand these nuanced differences and anticipate how they’re going to adapt to meet these new standards. Below are some of the most common expectations and values that the Gen Z workforce upholds and believes their workspaces should uphold as well.
A greater emphasis on career growth and development
Gen Z healthcare workers are eager to learn new skills and take on new responsibilities and only want to work for organizations where growth and development are a priority. Employers who can provide this will not only attract but also retain Gen Z workers for the long term.
To meet this need, healthcare organizations can offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement pathways. Providing these opportunities can improve the quality of care that patients receive and lead to a more engaged and motivated workforce. Healthcare employers can also support continuing education for their staff, including paying for certifications and continuing education units (CEUs).
Technology-driven facilities should be the norm
Gen Z healthcare workers are digital natives and are comfortable with technology. They expect their employers to use the latest technology to improve patient care, but they also want healthcare employers to utilize technology as a means to make their jobs more automated so they have more time to focus on their patients and responsibilities.
To meet this need, healthcare organizations can invest in electronic health records (EHRs), telehealth, and other digital solutions to improve the quality of care and efficiency of operations. Healthcare employers can also provide training for staff to use these technologies and ensure they are incorporated into daily workflows.
Diversity and inclusion across the organization
Diversity and inclusion are important values for Gen Z healthcare workers. They want to work for employers who embrace diversity and create a welcoming environment for all employees. Healthcare employers can meet this need by promoting diversity in hiring and promoting practices, providing cultural competency training, and creating employee resource groups.
Healthcare organizations can also partner with local organizations to support underrepresented communities. For example, healthcare organizations can provide free health screenings at community events or sponsor health education programs. These efforts can improve health outcomes and help build trust with the community.
Attainable work-life balance
Gen Z healthcare workers are highly motivated performers, but they also recognize the importance of maintaining a work-life balance, which means they don’t want their professional lives to interfere with their personal lives. As such, they want to work for facilities that offer benefits like flexible scheduling, remote work, employee assistance programs (EAPs), and more paid time off.
If Gen Z employees feel they have achieved a perfect balance between their work and their personal lives, they are more likely to stay at one organization for a prolonged period of time. And Gen Z workers aren’t afraid to job hop, so this is a sign of healthy work culture.
More access to mental health support
Mental health support is a growing concern for healthcare workers, and Gen Z workers are no exception. They want employers who prioritize mental health and provide resources for mental wellness, such as counseling services and stress management resources.
To improve mental health support, healthcare organizations can provide regular mental health check-ins with staff and provide a safe space for employees to discuss mental health concerns. Healthcare employers can also offer peer support groups and mental health awareness training to promote a culture of support and understanding. Gen Z workers do not want to experience prolonged stress and burnout, so they are very aware of their emotional well-being while at work.
Social responsibility
Gen Z healthcare workers are socially conscious and want to work for employers who prioritize social responsibility and making a positive impact on the community and the environment. Healthcare employers should be committed to engaging in community outreach programs, implementing environmentally-friendly practices, and supporting social justice causes. But employers can also implement green practices as well, such as reducing waste and energy consumption.
Healthcare facilities geared toward the next generation of healthcare workers won’t only build happier, more engaged teams, but they’re creating environments that will also lead to better patient care and outcomes.
Photo: adamkaz, Getty Images
