Millennial Nurses: Appreciation Goes a Long way
We hear a lot about Millennials in the news. Whether Millennials spend too much money on guacamole is for another discussion, but this generation has become one of the largest living generations since the Baby Boomers.
Who Are The Millennials?
Millennials are the group of people born between 1982 and 2000. This means that the oldest Millennial is 36 years old, while the youngest Millennial is 18 years old. According to the 2016 U.S. Census Bureau, the Millennial generation is now the largest living generation in the nation, surpassing even Baby Boomers (born between 1946 and 1964).
Older Millennials were able to experience the shift from analog to digital. They have learned how to adapt to the fast pace of technological advances. Even younger Millennials are quick to adapt to changes in their environment. Technology moves at a rapid rate. They understand that they have to keep up in order to stay relevant in the workforce.
Managers have had to learn how to work with this generation. While the need for recognition might seem trivial to past generations, it makes a huge difference in today’s workforce. People like to know that they are doing a good job. They like to know that their efforts make an actual difference.
The Importance of Meaningful Recognition
What does meaningful recognition entail? Awards and certificates show that managers have acknowledged exceptional behavior from their staff. It can motivate staff to do their best, even when they do not feel their best. Nothing hurts morale like feeling invisible to everyone around them.
Managers and supervisors can provide awards for the following:
- Compassionate care
- Exceptional service
- Going above and beyond
- Grace under pressure
- Examples of leadership
- Years of service
- Random acts of kindness
Think of some other things that staff nurses could earn awards. It will depend on the staff and what they do, but managers can identify the types of awards that will mean the most to their nursing team. Encouragement goes a long way in motivating staff members.
