The healthcare industry is booming. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that healthcare is one of the two fastest-growing industries in today’s economy. The American Nurses Association reports that nurses are retiring earlier, so there will be a demand to replace them. With the increase in job openings, medical faculties will need to find new ways of attracting the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Younger healthcare workers have different priorities than previous generations. Millennials, born between 1981 and 1997, saw technology advance with the introduction of the internet and smartphones. Gen-Z, born between 1997 and 2015, grew up learning and communicating via computers, social media and texting.

Both Millennials and Gen-Zers have similar desires when looking for a new job. Medical facilities may have better luck recruiting this generation if they consider what this age group wants in a career. Here are tips on how to attract the next generation in healthcare.

Embrace technology

Younger generations are comfortable using technology in their job search. They are more likely to apply for a job on a provider website of app that is easy to navigate. Candidates want to learn about the job before they apply, so create listings with clearly defined descriptions and responsibilities. If they understand what is expected of them, they are more likely to call a recruiter to inquire about the position.

Younger healthcare providers also want to use the latest technology in the workplace, so they can do their jobs more easily. Potential applicants may avoid facilities with outdated record systems and other processes that cut down on time spent with patients.

Showcase your brand

Health facilities can benefit from having their website showcase their philosophy, culture and policies. Potential applicants often look for that information before connecting with a recruiter.

The next generation will also look for organizations with a strong mission, diversity and inclusion initiatives and a commitment to community involvement. They want to work for healthcare facilities with values that align with their own. They also want to feel they are positively contributing to the community they serve.

Offer competitive benefits

Health care is a popular industry because of its competitive pay, but benefits are also important when recruiting the next generation.

Medical providers seeking a long-term position look for facilities offering core benefits like medical insurance, paid leave and retirement. Other incentives like mental health coverage, education assistance and wellness initiatives can give facilities an advantage over other companies. Sign-on bonuses and loan repayment assistance are also appealing incentives.

Temporary travel nurses and locum tenens physicians want healthcare coverage, housing stipends and the opportunity to get bonuses for completing placements.

Build workplace culture

Being a part of a team and feeling respected is important to most young people. Everyone wants to find a sense of purpose, but this generation thrives on doing meaningful work that aligns with their values.

A positive culture improves employee engagement and productivity and makes providers want to stay, making it a win-win for everyone. Even temporary medical providers benefit from a strong workplace culture. They are given the environment they need to transition into their roles smoothly.

Provide work/life balance

Work/life balance is becoming more important to all generations working in healthcare, especially with the increasing risk of burnout. The next generation sees balance as an essential benefit of working for a facility. They want flexible shifts and schedules that offer adequate time off to recover from extended hours.

Work/life balance is important to both permanent and temporary employees. Many healthcare professionals work travel nursing jobs and locum tenens so they can take time off between jobs. Having time off during their placements is vital, too.

Offer professional development

Career development is important to the next generation of healthcare providers. Many professionals pay for continuing education and license renewals themselves. This makes a facility that offers ongoing training more attractive to new talent.

Some healthcare professionals want the latest education to strengthen their skills and increase their chances of moving into a leadership role. With previous generations nearing retirement, it is crucial to retain talent and develop leaders to step into new roles.

Other staff may want to learn new skills to make lateral moves into a specialty position. Professional development can also provide staff with skills to create stronger teams and enhance patient care.

Healthcare staffing resources

TinkBird Healthcare Staffing has a nationwide network of providers seeking permanent positions, as well as locum tenens and travel nursing jobs. We help healthcare facilities find top talent by providing quality matches, superior customer service and a hassle-free medical staffing experience. Contact TinkBird to get started.