Communications

4.2 Discussion. Intergenerational Communication

Getting Started

There are lots of components to culture and how individuals interact. One of those pieces is generational culture. It may be fun at times to poke fun at the differences between generations (like in the videos below) but the truth is that intergenerational differences are real and can cause communication issues. Working to understand how to communicate across generations will help you as a leader.

· Millennials in the Workplace Training Video:

· How to Speak Gen Z Video:

Upon successful completion of this discussion, you will be able to:

· Differentiate the preferences of workers who vary in generational backgrounds.

Background Information

Start this assignment by reviewing the "Generational Differences in the Workplace [Infographic]." This will help you get a general understanding of how generations in the United States are grouped together and some brief descriptions of each.

Then watch “How generational stereotypes hold us back at work.” This video does not dismiss that there are generational differences but helps remind us that we are more alike than we are different. Follow that by reading "How to Manage Intergenerational Conflict in the Workplace."

Like the video, this article reminds us that every member of a generation is an individual. The article ends by reminding us that every team, regardless of the number of generations represented, needs to unite around a common purpose. This connects back to the very definition of leadership given by Northouse (2021), “Leadership is a process whereby an individual influences a group of individuals to achieve a common goal.”

Finally, gather an intergenerational group to discuss work. If you think it would be helpful and productive for your organization, include individuals from your workplace. If you would rather use individuals from outside work, that is okay as well. Make sure Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z are represented (you may represent whatever generation you are). Keep in mind that one individual does not represent an entire generation. Ask these questions of the group:

1. What three things are most important to you when choosing a job?

2. What three things are most important to you when it comes to who your boss is?

Instructions

1. Review the rubric to make sure you understand the criteria for earning your grade. 

2. Review the  Generational Differences in the Workplace [Infographic] (new tab) .

3. Watch the video "How Generational Stereotypes Hold Us Back at Work | Leah Georges."

4. Read  How to Manage Intergenerational Conflict in the Workplace (new tab) .

5. Gather an intergenerational group of individuals to discuss work. If you think it would be helpful and productive for your organization, include individuals from your workplace. If you would rather use individuals from outside work, that is okay as well. Make sure Baby Boomers, Generation X, Millennials, and Generation Z are represented. Then ask these questions:

a. What three things are most important to you when choosing a job? Why?

b. What three things are most important to you when it comes to who your boss is? Why?

6. After your intergenerational conversation, compose an initial post of 300-400 words responding to one or more of the.

a. How have the resources and your intergenerational conversation illuminated the differences and similarities between generations at work?

b. How can considering how different generations naturally communicate help you communicate with members of your team better?