How to Increase Your Appeal to Gen Y Physicians
Millennials are now 25 to 40 years old, there are 72 million of them in the U.S., and they’ve recently surpassed Baby Boomers as the largest generation in the nation (Pew Research).
Currently, Millennial doctors are busy establishing their careers. They’re gaining momentum, and they’re in demand. Across the nation, healthcare facilities are strategizing to gain advantage in the market for these emerging physicians.
5 Ways to Attract and Retain Millennial Doctors
While some of the methods that have appealed to Gen X and Baby Boomer physicians in the past may still work, facilities should consider how Millennials are different and tweak their messaging and approach. These tips can help leaders create a plan to attract and retain top Millennial talent.
1. Focus on Flexibility and Freedom
Millennials value freedom, flexibility, mobility, personal time and quality of life. Wherever possible, healthcare organizations should allow scheduling flexibility and plenty of vacation time. Consider offering an array of options, including 7-on/7-off, 5-on/5-off, 10-on/5-off, M-F with rotating weekend coverage, or variable schedules (The Hospitalist).
Facilities should also highlight autonomy of practice. Millennials grew up with the internet and their social networks at their fingertips, so they’re highly independent, resourceful and accustomed to solving problems on their own (Forbes). Opportunities to work part-time, travel, or practice virtually via telemedicine will also appeal to many Millennials. When advertising positions, facilities should feature characteristics showing the freedom and independence providers will have.
2. Feature Opportunities for Professional and Personal Growth
Millennials are in the growth curve of their careers. Any programs you can offer to support their professional development can boost appeal. Does the position offer mentorship or peer support? Are there leadership opportunities? Upward mobility? Will the physician be able to collaborate with cross-disciplinary teams and learn from others? Will there be research, clinical studies, or publications?
Millennials also seek personal growth in their jobs. Does the organization offer online learning opportunities or personal enrichment classes? Is there a focus on co-creating solutions and human-centered, equity-based design? (Deloitte).
3. Highlight Social and Environmental Responsibility
Millennials are well aware of the state of the world and the impact they can make. They know they can use their individual power to make a difference, and they expect businesses and government to do the same (Forbes). It’s important to Millennials to help solve social and or environmental challenges and work with a group of diverse people (Harvard Business Review).
To appeal to Millennial physicians, healthcare organizations can underscore any social and environmental initiatives. Will the physician have opportunities to work with underserved patient populations? Is there a strong diversity, equity and inclusion program in place? Are all individuals valued and given a voice? Is there meaning and purpose in the work? Is the organization involved in the local community and public health? Is the culture focused on creating a better tomorrow? Does the organization have programs to create less waste or use less energy?
4. Emphasize Innovation and Technology
Millennials were born into the digital ecosystem, so they expect to be immersed in technology. They can adapt to systems rapidly. However, they can quickly grow impatient with cumbersome, obsolete and time-consuming tech. Millennial physicians expect state-of-the-art innovations that genuinely enhance the provider and patient experience, improve safety and solve health challenges.
When interviewing candidates, healthcare organizations should point out any advanced technologies and innovative techniques they offer. Are the providers leaders in the field? Are they developing novel solutions? Do they use robotic or minimally invasive techniques, AI, augmented reality or nanotechnology?
5. Use Multiple Means of Recruitment
Millennials search for positions through various routes, many of them unconventional. To reach Millennial physician candidates, organizations can use social media, professional journals and virtual conferences. They can also expect prospects to turn to their social networks, alma maters, hospital websites and online job boards.
To save time and resources, facilities can enlist the help of a trusted recruiting agency. Successful recruiting professionals are skilled at crafting job descriptions and advertisements that appeal to new recruits.
Ready to find Millennial physicians now? Connect with a representative.
