Welcome back to our two-part series discussing Millennials and the shortage of them in the HTM candidate pool. If you missed Part I, we covered three of the most common factors attributed to the lack of younger generations available to our industry.
Today, this Millennial is going to build on the challenges with refilling the HTM candidate pool at an equal proportion we expect a mass exodus due to normal retirement.
#1. HTM is “Behind-the-Scenes”
True. If doctors and nurses are the superheroes, we are the nerdy computer guy providing all the “awesome tech” to the heroes. Together, we are a team. We work endless hours behind the scenes to keep patients and doctors focused on patient care without the unnecessary worry over medical equipment. Unfortunately, being behind the scenes prevents people from knowing about us; so how can we expect someone to learn these roles? This really is a simple solution… TALK ABOUT HTM all the time. You have networks; personal and professional. Talking about what you do, your role, your industry and why you are in this line of work. It opens the conversation to those who may not know. Focusing those conversations with young adults reaching the age of career decisions offers them yet one more option to explore. Bring your role into the light, introduce yourself, and welcome questions that open curiosity around our industry.
#2. BMETs are a Specialty within a Specialty.
That’s us! While we would like to think that this is a unique feature in the healthcare industry, it really isn’t. The difference is that HTM is not a popular topic and less discussions about the inner workings of the industry means there are less people who know about it. True, there are specific requirements to step on to this career path, but that should not deter anyone from becoming interested in this avenue. While the studies and requirements are different from a doctor or a nurse, there is still a distinct career path within the healthcare industry available to these younger generations. Assist in outlining how you got here and why you love it! Chance are you may inspire someone to join our industry.
#. Generational Disconnects
Again, true. However, social media is not the only way to communicate with other generations. Millennials prefer it, but there are other options to consider. When is the last time you participated in a Career Day at a local school or community event? The percentage of high school students joining the military are decreasing as the years go by; those who are joining are more and more likely to stay through retirement. What this means is that we cannot rely solely on the military to train and supply qualified candidates to the industry. WE must engage with the younger generations, especially those who truly enjoy using their technical skills. Again, bringing light to our industry and the specifics of what BMETs do and how they get into this role will encourage curiosity. Share not only what happens after you get into the role but HOW to get there. Talk about schools, training, and requirements. Follow that up with recommendations of schools, groups to join, and networks to look at. All this preparation at the younger ages will create a new generation of young adults in pursuit of careers within our industry.
We’ve already shared what Millennials are looking for when searching for employment: a career with purpose. BMETs have direct impact on patient care and the overall healthcare industry serves an important purpose in the world. These two pieces should be a key selling point when discussing the role, industry, and options.
There is obviously no perfect answer in preparing for the Retirement Exodus within the HTM industry. However, bringing awareness to the industry and opening lines of communication with Millennials and the younger generations will broaden the candidate pool interest.
Today, we challenge you to find a way to openly communicate about your career and why you love it. If you do find a way to use social media, tag us @theRealSPBS and #SPBSblogChallenge. Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments. We love to hear from you.