5 Ways to Bridge the Generational Divide in Your Team
Most practices have team members from four different generations. Baby Boomers (1946 to 1964), Gen X (1965 to 1980), Millennials (1981 to 1996, and Gen Z (1997 to 2012), and we all have to come together to deliver the best possible care to our patients.
As office managers, we must understand the differences between the generations and find the commonalities to create a performing team that delivers memorable care to our patients and lives up to the culture of our practice.
Understanding Different Generations
- Baby Boomers generally have difficulty adopting new technology, are loyal to their employers, value hard work and structure, are determined and competitive, prefer conventional ways of doing things, and like face-to-face communication.
- Generation X values independence and autonomy and tends to have a more free-minded approach, like flexibility and diversity, is comfortable with technology, has a strong work ethic, and is okay with in-person and online communication.
- Millennials like flexibility and freedom, appreciate self-care, have an entrepreneurial approach, want an impact, are not afraid to change workplaces if it provides them more meaning, seek to explore their skills and creativity and prefer online communication.
- Generation Z looks for workplaces that fit their values, are more conscious of their needs, value diversity and social responsibility, are mindful of the environment, like flexibility, want the freedom to pursue their interests, are the most technologically advanced of all generations, and appreciate face-to-face interactions.
There is No One Size That Fits All
Each generation has different preferences, so understand there will be friction and negotiate a middle ground that works best for the group.
Create a safe space where differences are respected and team members can express themselves. People gravitate towards what they have in common, and they will create micro-groups.
Use the energy of those groups to foster the whole team. Team members will not like everything you do; ensure you are fair and consistent.
Tailored to Different Interests
Use technology that creates efficiencies and gives people more time to interact with each other. Include a variety of approaches in your activities: Videos, memes, data, and spreadsheets all provide valuable information.
Change is constant, so navigate change with flexibility and build-in time for different learning curves.
Culture, generations, and communication styles all have specific characteristics; use them to promote a sense of belonging.
Multigenerational Language
Seek to understand others before trying to impose a point of view. Lead by example, be clear and transparent about expectations, and be vulnerable when making mistakes.
Encourage collaboration and mentorship. Communicate why something is important and provide the tools to achieve the goal.
Rewards and Recognition
Set your team up for success and develop processes and procedures that promote performance.
Each team member has a unique set of skills. Find a way to make them shine. Lean on strengths; do not focus on weaknesses. Celebrate small wins and big ones.
Have a culture of gratitude that communicates all the different ways your team is amazing.
United Through Values and Vision
Establish cultural values for the practice; what is essential and non-negotiable?
Shared vision and values create a common ground that allows team members to speak the same language and work toward goals.
Understanding the more significant impact of everyday tasks and how each position influences others is essential to promoting a culture of teamwork. Clear objectives, vision, and values provide a framework. Allow the freedom for team members to achieve them in their own way.
Regardless of our generation, leaders must be champions of change and masters of flexibility. We must do the work ourselves to create a space for our teams to be the best versions of themselves.
About the Author
Carolina Perez, MAADOM
Carolina Perez holds an undergraduate degree in communication and a master’s degree in group dynamics. Her original background is in corporate communications, training, and development.
In 2007, Carolina relocated from her home country of Venezuela to Houston. Today, she serves as the clinical director of Echeverri Dental Center.
Carolina has been an AADOM member since 2017 and received her AADOM Master Distinction in 2023.
