How many times have you heard "you're too old to understand" or "this was before your time"?

Thankfully, there are a few simple strategies that can improve the efficiency, clarity, and quality of communication between different generations at work.

Be aware of how each generation (tends to) prefer to communicate: this is key to getting your message across!

Boomers

• formal and direct

• in-person, phone, or email

• value background info

Millennials

• authentic and fast

• text, chat, email, or Instagram

• value efficiency and digital-first approach

Gen X

• informal and flexible

• email, phone, or text

• value professional etiquette

Gen Z

• transparent and visual

• face-to-face, Snapchat, FaceTime

• value video and mobile-only approach

Match the message to the channel.

• Emails and chats are great for short announcements or news.

• Video chat or in-person meetings are great for brainstorming or for discussing sensitive information.

When replying always try to mirror the communication channel. Replying by email to a DM, for example, breaks the communication flow.

Despite the challenges, working with a multigenerational team can be a win-win if team members are open to learning from each other.

Generation Z and Millennials have grown up alongside the technology we use daily. Many have a knack for innovation and "making things work".

Generation X and Baby Boomers started working prior to such technology and may bring strong interpersonal skills that help teams gel.

Commit to improving communication on your multigenerational team this week!