As technology and social media have developed over the years, different generations have changed how they communicate with one another. This has led to many conflicts and misinterpretations. This slide show is all about why boomers, millennials and gen-z are not compatible and how we can make communication work.
Understanding the communication styles of different generations is the way to make stronger connections and better collaborations. By considering the attitudes towards work, information and focus, we can plan how to approach colleagues and clients of different generations in a more productive way. After all, communication is the basis for successful relationships and achieving shared objectives.
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Silent Generation and Baby Boomers: Traditional Communication Channels
Silent Generation and Baby Boomers grew up in a world where face-to-face and formal communication systems were common. They like direct, structured communications & long-term commitments. They also value relationships and face-to-face interaction in the workplace —they often interpret it as a form of trust and loyalty.
These ways of communicating are not always compatible with the needs of younger generations. This often leads to confusion and polarization. For example, for the generation Millennials and Gen Z, physical meetings are probably unnecessary or slow. They prefer digital methods of communication like instant messaging & video calls.
Generation X: Efficiency and Flexibility
Generation X, meanwhile, is very efficient and flexible in communication. They’re okay with email, phone, or text and care about the work-life balance and outcomes more than process. This is a generation that values straight-to-the-point, direct communication and will communicate via digital mediums as well.
Yet this can be problematic for other generations who may see them as too impersonal or unmotivated to form strong, meaningful connections. Boomers and the Silent Generation may find their communication style abrupt and lacking in the personal touch, which can cause miscommunication and arguments.
Millennials: Personal Growth and Development
Millennials respect self-development and they value openness of communication. They are heavy text and instant-messaging users and they are prone to using informal rather than formal communication channels. They appreciate teamwork and they mainly work with others via digital platforms.
But this is likely to lead to tensions with the other generations, who will find them too tech-savvy and apathetic when it comes to building relationships. Boomers and the Silent Generation may find their manner of communicating unprofessional and personal and it can lead to miscommunications and tiffs.
Gen Z: Digital-Focused and Honest
Gen Zs, the youngest workforce generation, are digital natives who value cooperation and transparency. They are open to direct and genuine communication and reviews, and typically prefer IM, video conferencing and voice calls. They are used to technology and values personal development just like millennials.
But they can clash with older people who might not value instant messaging and video-chatting as much as they do. Boomers and the Silent Generation may think their style is informal and unfocused, generating confusion and disagreement.
Bridging the Communication Gap
Even though your communication style may be different, you will be able to adapt and negotiate successfully with colleagues and customers across the generations. Here are some ways to do so.
#1 Understand the Different Communication Styles of Each Generation
It’s important to know the communication preferences of different generations to avoid misunderstandings and conflicts. This includes understanding their attitudes towards work, information, and focus. Knowing these differences can give you a strategy for how to engage with peers and clients across generations.
#2 Be Open To Learning and Adapting
We need to be open to learning and adjusting to the ways that other generations communicate. That includes being open to new communication avenues and techniques that you may not be accustomed to. This way, you can create better relationships and collaborations with peers and customers across generations.
#3 Find Common Ground
Although communication styles vary, most people share goals and interests which can be leveraged to create a successful relationship. Communicating and sharing goals are ways to help create a mutual understanding and stronger relationships. It can be common interests beyond work, goals for the project/company or common values shared by both sides.
#4 Communicate Clearly and Respectfully
The key to effective communication is concise and courteous communication, whatever the format. Remember to be respectful of others’ communication styles and keep your messages brief and simple. This can also prevent misunderstandings and disagreements and create better relationships based on respect.
#5 Embrace Technology
Technology has revolutionized the way we work and interact. Using technology and new avenues of communication can enable the intergenerational work gap to be bridged. It can also open new spaces of collaboration and innovation that were not possible before.
Conclusion
Communication is the key to any successful personal and professional relationship. But communication differences between generations cause confusion and conflict at work. If we know how different generations communicate and if we are willing to learn and adopt communication formats across generations, we can connect with colleagues and customers of all ages.
Disclaimer – This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.