In her article, Creating a Bright Future: Identifying Supports for Millennial Nurse Leaders, appearing in the January 2020 issue of Voice of Nursing Leadership, Lauren Kalember, MSN, RN-BC, CCRN-K, examines the characteristics of millennials in nursing and suggests strategies to support their transition into leadership roles.
She outlines the five leadership characteristics of millennials:
- Relational,
- Innovative,
- High expectations,
- Motivated, and
- Life-long learners.
She also explores mentorship models and suggests specific strategies to support millennial nurse leaders, including:
- Give specific praise: What they did, what strength they demonstrated and why it matters. More than just a “good job.”
- Embrace continuous improvement and failing: allow them to try projects without having all of the answers.
- Support the desire for learning: Offer educational group workshops, webinars, and tuition reimbursement:
- Assess/explore top values and expectations: Determine what leader activities will help achieve their values. Say “yes, let’s try it” more often.