Multi-Generational Perspectives on the Competencies Required of First-Line Nurse Managers: A Phenomenological Study

Abstract

First-line nurse managers play an integral role in ensuring team and organizational effectiveness and quality of care. They are facing increasing challenges arising from the need to lead a generation-diverse workforce. Further research that examines multi-generational perspectives on the competencies of first-line nurse managers is warranted. This paper aimed to elucidate multi-generational perspectives on the competencies required of first-line nurse managers based on their lived experiences and perceptions, as well as those of frontline nurses. A descriptive phenomenological approach was adopted. A total of 48 informants were invited to individual semi-structured interviews to share their perspectives on the competencies required of first-line nurse managers. Findings were analyzed using Van Kaam’s controlled explication method. Four themes that described four areas of competency were generated: (1) advocating for the interests of the staff, (2) allocating resources effectively, (3) building cohesive teams, and (4) embracing change and quality. The findings indicated that there were significant discrepancies among the different generations of informants in terms of their degree of commitment to work, preferred modes of team communication and collaboration, and perspectives on the role and function and preferred leadership styles of first-line nurse managers. This study fell short in examining the experiences of Generation Z nurses, and the findings are subject to further validation by larger samples. However, this study has implications for hospital administrators, nurse educators, and managers, encouraging them to rethink the notion of management competencies to develop effective strategies for leading a multi-generational workforce.