Communicating Across Generations

Communication styles can be rooted in the influence of the events, technology, and values present in the world around us while we were growing up. As a result, generational trends can influence communication preferences. However, it is critical to recognize that individual preferences often vary widely within any generational cohort. While there are some overarching generational trends, good communication requires tailoring your style to each person. How do you know what those preferences are? Ask individuals you work with how they prefer to engage and receive information. Discuss options that are available and see what works best for everyone.

If you are working on a multi-generational team, there may need to be some concession building around communication expectations, but doing so early on and with transparency can strengthen connections.

Here are a few other considerations for communicating across generations:

• Be Self Aware: Take the time to be self-reflective and think about your own communication preferences and blind spots. Be honest with your team and consider asking for their help.
• Be Willing to Learn: Challenge yourself to learn communication methods that are not as familiar or comfortable to you, but meaningful or convenient for others.
• Be Adaptable: Often people want the same things, but maybe they want those things communicated differently. When possible, adapt to different communication preferences. Consider opportunities to compromise to meet different preferences or needs. For example, you might engage on Slack or Teams throughout the day, but meet in person for important conversations.
• Talk About It! Whether with an individual or a team, talk about what each person values or prefers. Email? Face-to-face? Messaging? Zoom? While it is not always possible to cater to everyone’s preferred mode, agree on what will work in your context and seek to balance communication methods.