Gen Z in the Dental Office

Lastly, in our article series, we come to our youngest group, Generation Z. This group is classified as those born in 1996 and later. Gen Z grew up surrounded by the latest and greatest technology. They are just beginning to enter the workforce and their preferences are still being figured out, but being the youngest in the workforce, they are well aware that they have a lot to learn.

Formative events during their lifetime:

• ISIS
• Marriage equality
• Sandy Hook and other major mass shootings
• Rise of the iPhone
• First Black president

Core Values:

• Hardworking
• Financial stability
• Socially aware
• Equality
• Security
• Transparency
• Mentorship

Stereotypes:

• Competitive
• Entrepreneurial
• Multi-taskers
• Want to be catered to
• Tech savvy
• Anti-social

On the Job:

• Flexible schedule
• Fair pay and benefits
• Opportunities for growth, continuing education
• Face-to-face communication
• Empowering work culture
• Close relationship with superiors rather than constant feedback

Messages that Motivate:

• Your efforts are making an impact in our practice and with patients
• Opportunities to learn more
• A close mentoring relationship

Keys to remember while working across the generations:

• Staying respectful, flexible and understanding.
• Being open to learning from others, and helping them to learn from you.
• Adapting your communication style.
• The characteristics for each generation are general statements. It’s important to remember that while someone might belong to a certain generation, you should not assume they identify with all aspects of that group. Understanding their generation is the first step to uncovering that individual’s wants and needs.