Communication in the workplace needs to be effective in order to minimize mistakes. Many times managers scratch

their heads trying to figure out how the simple instructions they gave could have been misinterpreted. The basis for

this problem could be due to the various communication styles of the different generations working in your office. In

most companies, there are four generations working side-by-side. Each generation has their preferred form of

communication and for good reason. In order to better communicate with your employees you need to

be proactive in understanding their communication styles and your own.

Traditionalist (1925 - 1945)

Due to the economic downturns and stock market crashes of recent years, these individuals are prolonging

retirement and staying in the workforce longer. This demographic is known as the “silent generation” for their

focused and quiet way of doing business. They are extremely private they put in their time at the office and go home

to their families. Traditionalists come from the industrial age, where individuals stayed with their companies through

retirement. In other words, this group is fiercely loyal.

Traditionalists prefer to be communicated with through formal written communication. Remember, most of the

modern technology entered the work environment long after Traditionalists were already experienced workers.

Therefore, sending emails or text is not the most effective way to communicate with this group. However, don’t be

quick to say they can’t learn computers. This group also happens to be the fastest growing group of Internet users.

In addition, make sure written communication is easy to read using large font.

Baby Boomers (1946 - 1964)

Baby Boomers are the rebellious group. We have this group to thank for much of how business is conducted today.

Baby Boomers coined the phrase “paying dues.” They put their time in with their companies to acquire extensive

knowledge and now occupy most of the top-level positions. Understand that Baby Boomers have a need to be

respected for their years of experience and expertise. Giving them the opportunity to give suggestions will show your

recognition of their acquired knowledge.

Communication with Baby Boomers is better received when it’s done in person using body language and a direct

style. Allow them to obtain more details by asking questions. This group embraces change and therefore may

suggest better ways of improving your processes. Baby Boomers may be your most challenging employees,

however, due to their extensive expertise their suggestions will be worth your time.

Generation X (1965 – 1980)

Gen Xers are the most independent of the four generations working in the workplace. This group watched first-hand

the first of the corporate downsizing of their parents and decided “not for me.” Therefore, they are entrepreneurial in

their thinking and their approach toward careers. Gen Xers want independence. They may work for a corporation,

Communicate  with  the  Four  Generations  in  Your  Office  

Employment by Suite101 May 4, 2011 Angela Huffmon

eOffice, 20 Broadwick, W1F 8HT, London, UK, tel +44 870 888 8888, hello@eoffice.net, www.eoffice.net

but there is no corporate loyalty. If you want to hold on to this group offer them a personal relationship through

mentorship. Gen X may not be company loyal, but they are loyal to people.

Communicating with Xers should be direct, and concise. Choose email as the best way to communicate, because

they are time conscience. They are constantly seeking faster and better ways to complete their assignments so they

will have more time available outside of work. This group is currently between the ages of 31 and 46 years of age,

smack in the middle of raising children. They desire flexible work schedule to make room for their family life. Offer

Gen X employees the opportunities to work independently, with the ability to coordinate their own schedules. Give

them frequent and immediate feedback. In addition, keep open communication with Gen Xers by keep them in the

loop at all times of any company changes. Due to their skeptical nature, Gen Xers are looking for truth in the

workplace not political correctness.

Generation Y (1981 – 2000)

The name Millennials is super appropriate for this group. They are modern, high-tech, fast moving, and fun. This

new group entering the workplace will ramp up your environment. They will inject energy because they are extremely

optimistic about the future. Gen Y is the group that grew up with team sports where everyone participates and

everyone gets rewarded. When your Millennial employees perform great work they expect immediate positive

feedback. As a manager, you will need to think of creative ways to reward and recognize this group to keep them

motivated and engaged. In addition, due to their up bringing which encourage group dynamics, Millennials will

embrace your leadership and mentorship.

Communication with Gen Y employees should be through email, text, or Intranet. Express your interest in their

personal development. Indicate your openness to their innovative ideas. It’s important not to talk down to them by

referring to their inexperience. Instead encourage their many opportunities for career grow

Sources:

• Peggy Blake Gleeson, PT, PhD. Managing and Motivating the Generations: Implications for the Student and the Employee. 2003

• George V. Russell Jr., MD. Managing Across the Generations. AAOS Now, August 2009 • Martin Zwilling. 6 Tips For Managing Generation Y Employees. August 18, 2010 • Greg Hammill. Mixing and Managing Four Generations of Employees. FDU Magazine Winter/Spring 2005 • Christine W. Zust, M.A. Baby Boomer Leaders Face Challenges Communicating Across Generations.

EmergingLeader.com

© Suite101.com Media Inc. Angela Huffmon. “Communicate with the Four Generations in Your Office.” Suite101. May 4, 2011. http://www.suite101.com/content/communicate-with-the-four-generations-in-your-office-a369418