The next generation of physicians is in their last year of residency. What are they seeking in physician jobs?
Generation Z has been described as the most diverse generation ever to enter our workforce. However, within that diversity are some commonalities that can inform how we recruit and retain Gen Z physicians.
With the oldest Gen Z physicians in their final year of residency, it’s an excellent time to consider what motivates our next cohort of practitioners. While no generation is a monolith, examining what has shaped their outlook, behaviors, attitudes, and preferences is worthwhile. A report from Deloitte and the Network of Executive Women (NEW) about this generation can help us separate the myths and stereotypes from reality as we consider how it impacts our efforts to recruit and retain Gen Z physicians.
Understanding Gen Z Physicians: Key Characteristics and Preferences
Almost nothing has shaped Gen Z more than technology. Their comfort with digital tools, online platforms, and virtual communication suggests these young physicians will easily adapt to evolving EHR platforms and emerging technologies. It also means recruiters will do well to leverage a digital recruiting and retention strategy. From job postings and virtual interviews to digital onboarding and hybrid work opportunities, the next generation is technology-forward.
Gen Z prioritizes working for organizations whose values align with their own. They are drawn to companies that demonstrate strong ethics, social responsibility, and a commitment to positively impacting the world. Healthcare organizations should highlight their commitment to patient care, community health, and ethical practices to attract Gen Z physicians passionate about these values.
As the most diverse generation in history, Gen Z values inclusivity across race, gender, orientation, and identity. They seek workplaces that reflect this diversity and promote a culture of belonging. To attract and retain Gen Z physicians, healthcare organizations must prioritize diversity and inclusion initiatives, ensuring representation at all levels and fostering an environment where everyone feels respected and valued.
While Gen Z values stability, they also seek diverse and entrepreneurial opportunities for growth and development. They are eager to learn new skills, take on challenges, and advance their careers. Healthcare organizations with leadership development programs and strong mentorship opportunities will appeal to Gen Z physicians’ desire for growth and advancement.
Gen Z doesn’t necessarily follow traditional hierarchical career paths. They want to explore different roles, gain diverse experiences, and customize their career journeys. The path to retention includes flexible career paths, rotational programs, and opportunities for cross-functional collaboration.
Tailoring Recruitment Strategies for Gen Z Physicians
You don’t have to overhaul your recruiting program to appeal to Gen Z physicians. However, you should calibrate it a little differently when you are striving to attract Gen Z:
Lead with Purpose and Impact: Emphasizing your organization’s commitment to patient care, community health, and addressing healthcare disparities will likely appeal to Gen Z recruits, as will showcasing how physicians within the organization are making a tangible difference in the lives of patients and the community.
Commit to Digital-First: Meet Gen Z where they are by using online platforms for job postings, conducting virtual interviews, and sharing interactive online content that showcases the organization’s culture and values.
Showcase Diversity and Inclusion: Highlight the organization’s commitment to diversity and inclusion through leadership representation, employee testimonials, and initiatives promoting a culture of belonging.
Offer Competitive Compensation and Benefits: While salary is important, Gen Z also values work-life balance, flexible work arrangements, and comprehensive benefits packages.
Provide Professional Development Opportunities: Outline clear pathways for career advancement, offer mentorship programs, and provide access to continuing education and leadership training.
Retention Strategies: Creating a Supportive and Engaging Environment
While many organizations don’t have formal retention strategies, it’s never too soon to codify how your organization is working to create an enduring workforce. You may have elements of a plan in place already, but make sure it includes the following:
Foster a Culture of Mentorship and Collaboration: Pair experienced physicians with Gen Z residents to facilitate knowledge transfer and professional growth. Studies indicate physicians with mentors have greater job satisfaction and are thus more likely to stay in their jobs.
Embrace Technology: Integrating digital tools and platforms into daily workflows to streamline processes, enhance communication, and support data-driven decision-making will not frustrate Gen Z. It will be their expectation.
Promote Work-Life Balance: Nearly every generation has told us that flexible work schedules, remote work options (where feasible), and generous paid time off are important to them. This is especially true for Gen Z.
Have a Feedback-Rich Environment: Regular performance evaluations, constructive feedback, and opportunities for open and two-way communication foster professional growth and a sense of value, especially for early-career physicians.
Support Community Involvement: Gen Z physicians often seek opportunities to engage in community outreach programs and initiatives that align with their values and interests.
Healthcare organizations that adapt recruitment and retention strategies to attract and retain this talented generation of young physicians will also enrich the workplace experience of Millennials, Gen X, and Boomer physicians. After all, creating a work environment that is purpose-driven, technologically advanced, inclusive, and supportive of professional growth is crucial for the long-term success of organizations in the evolving healthcare landscape.
Whether your organization is seeking residents or experienced physicians, the recruitment team at Jackson Physician Search has the access, tools, and expertise to reach physicians at all stages of their careers. Reach out today for more information.
