Communication Between Generations
Different communication styles between people are to be expected as we have all grown up in different locations, cultures, etc. In the workplace, you especially deal with generational differences. In the workforce, you have three different generations: baby boomers, generation x, and millennials. Having all these different communication styles may lead to conflict or misunderstanding. For a smoother time in the workplace, having a grasp on the communication between generations is necessary.
The oldest generation in the workplace is the baby boomers; those born between 1946 and 1964. They did not grow up with much modern technology and throughout their work-life, they used a telephone. Making their preferred form of communication a face-to-face meeting with a phone call as a close second. Baby boomers value hard work and earning respect. As they are nearing retirement, their primary focus is being financially secure.
In the middle, you have Gen X, born between 1965 and 1980. They did not have the same access to technology as millennials, but they have a greater understanding of tech than baby boomers. As they moved throughout the workforce, the most prominent technology available was email. That is why their preferred method of communication would be emailing, but a phone call would be the second-best thing. Most people in this generation have families or are starting them, so their main priority would be having a steady income to provide for their family.
The final generation present in the workplace are millennials, those born between 1981 and 2000. They are considered the most technologically savvy generation. They grew up with the internet and social media and they know how to use it both personally and professionally. Because of their vast knowledge, millennials are a hot commodity in modern companies. However, their reliance on technology sometimes hinders their ability to have face-to-face social interactions. Making their primary form of communication a text message or other messaging through a professional app. Millennials seek professional fulfillment over compensation and are more likely to leave a job if they do not feel it serves their purpose.
Everyone is unique and may not fit right into these generalizations, but it is important to understand the generational difference in values and communication styles.
Agents
We hope this information on communication between generations is helpful to you.
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Kayla is a graduate of Texas A&M University and joined the marketing team at Empower Brokerage in early 2021. She creates content for the company websites and assists with various marketing campaigns. LinkedIn Profile
