Managing the multigenerational nursing team

Today's workforce is more diverse in age than ever before. This study examined the generational profiles of two groups (the Silent Generation, and Baby Boomers vs. Generation X and Generation Y) in terms of the following variables: characteristics, communication styles, and significance of tasks. The purpose was to assist nurse managers to maximize departmental effectiveness by capitalizing on the unique characteristics of the multigenerational nursing team. A descriptive design was used to examine nursing staff perceptions of their generational profiles, communication styles, and significance of tasks. The convenience sample included registered nurses, nurse technicians and nursing secretaries from two departments, a medical-surgical and a critical care department (N = 62). The study provided participants with the opportunity to give their interpretations of their generational types. Similarities and differences of generational profiles were found between the two groups. There were no significant differences in communication style and significance of tasks between the two groups (P > .05). However, there were differences in expectations regarding commitment to the manager versus the organization and the type and timing of rewards for performance. All four generational groups had vastly different employment demands and different needs for orientation, training, advancement, benefits, perks, and retirement options.