Effective conversations between generations in the workplace has always required effort, and the hybrid workplace can make it more challenging. But by being more aware of the differences between how each generation says what it means, workplace leaders can create clear lines of communication to ensure everyone in the office feels they’re being heard and knows they’re understood, which is especially important at global enterprises with large networks of employees separated not only by age, location, and often even time zones. 

Why communication differences exist between generations 

Communication styles are closely connected to time and place, and the major historical events a generation experiences can impact how they speak and interact with others. Baby Boomers came of age during a time of great political and social change, but they also enjoyed new economic stability and prosperity. Millennials benefitted from all that came with being the first digital natives, but many of them also entered the workforce in a tougher economy.  

All this creates differences in word choice, level of familiarity, platform, and expectations for every aspect of the replies, from format to timeliness. For example, when reaching out to a client or colleague, one generating intuitively defaults to a phone call, email, or text message, while another tackles the exact same task differently.    

How the generation prefer to communicate 

That said, it’s always important to treat everyone as an individual and not stereotype them based on their generation. These are generalizations that land somewhere below rules of thumb for reliability. 

Baby Boomers (ages 55-73) 

This generation has embraced digital technology, including smartphones and social media, and they are also embracing new opportunities that remote work brings. A recent study showed they are 15% more likely to apply to remote work positions than other generations. In fact, many are choosing to take up remote work after official retirement.  

In general, Baby Boomers are used to strict, stable, and centralized hierarchies. The egalitarian, open-office trends of Silicon Valley did not yet exist when they entered the workforce. They tend to expect loyalty, respect, and obedience, but to younger generations, those values need to be earned. They also want to maintain opportunities for face-to-face communication whenever possible. It’s a bit of a cliche, but they’re the generation that likes to believe in the value of a firm handshake while looking someone in the eye. 

Generation X (ages 39-54) 

While not true digital natives, Gen X employees are just as likely to be comfortable using technology in the workplace. More than half (54%) say they are tech-savvy, according to recent research. Although this generation tends to be overlooked for promotions, they play a critical role in leadership, managing more direct reports, staying at their company longer and taking on heavier workloads. They tend to stay in the same positions longer than Millennials, with only 37% considering leaving to advance their career. They want technology that supports their professional development. 

They also prefer coaching from an outside consultant or trainer rather than their own manager. 

Millennials (ages 23-38) 

Millennials want to work for a company that embraces technology more than the generations before them. In a recent CompTia report, 71% said technology influences where they decide to work. In general, Millennials want mobile technology that facilitates collaboration and teamwork. Not surprisingly, they are leading the charge to embrace cloud-based technology in the workplace. 

Millennials came of age in an unstable time in the economy, so they are used to frequently shifting jobs and even careers. Their workplace expectations are often tentative and flexible. They place more emphasis on mental health than previous generations. Loyalty to a company is not a given, but rather contingent on the company’s continued support. 

Generation Z (ages 22 and younger) 

This generation is just beginning to enter the workplace. They have never known a world without technology and expect the tech they use in the workplace to be just as frictionless as the apps they use at home. They prefer a workplace that allows them to use their own devices if possible. They also expect communication between generations in the workplace to be instantaneous and full of tech. Like Millennials, Gen Z is coming of age at an uncertain time, and they will likely see flexibility and frequent career shifts as the norm. 

Challenges and opportunities for each generation in the workplace 

The hybrid work model offers new challenges and opportunities for each generation. 

Baby Boomers, for example, tend to miss the face-to-face collaboration of working in the office. 

Gen X, the “middle child” generation, fears being left invisible. They have struggled to move into upper management positions, because older employees decided to hold on to their jobs for longer before retiring. Now that this is changing, though, Gen X is finding itself finally moving into those coveted high-ranking roles. In any case, they are flexible and expect to adopt new communications technologies. 

As digital natives, Millennials and Gen Z have had the easiest time adjusting to the new technology. They are comfortable communicating online, and many prefer the independence and flexibility that combinations of remote and hybrid work provide. 

However, the isolation of remote work has created problems for some. Younger generations benefit from mentorship, and that works best when everyone is in the same location. Being a mentor means more than leading by example. It’s about empathy and those heart-to-heart “real talks” about expectations and performance that are best done in a quiet corner of the office.  

How to improve communication between generations in the workplace 

Understanding how each generation views technology and prefers to use it can help you decide which tools to implement.  

Following these tips can help you appreciate generational differences and even use them to improve communication between generations in your workplace. 

  • Set expectations regarding workplace culture and behavior 
  • Use different types of communication 
  • Personalize your approach 
  • Understand differences in values and motivations 
  • Ask, don’t assume 
  • Remove barriers to communication 
  • Be willing to teach and be taught 
  • Acknowledge the differences 

Set expectations regarding workplace culture and behavior 

When Baby Boomers were entering the workforce, suits and ties were standard office attire and computers didn’t exist. These days, everyone has a smartphone that allows them to communicate from virtually anywhere. While it might be second nature for a Millennial to have their smartphone on their desk and respond to notifications, other generations might consider it disrespectful. And one generation’s definition of business casual might be drastically different from that of another generation. 

As a workplace leader, it’s important for you to clearly communicate expectations for workplace etiquette and attire, so through what they wear and how they behave, everyone is communicating that they’re serious about work. 

Use different types of communication between generations 

Baby Boomers grew up using rotary phones, while Millennials had their own cellphone before they were teenagers. Baby Boomers prefer face-to-face conversations, while Generation Xers prefer to speak via phone, email, or text. While you may be hard-pressed to find a rotary phone nowadays, you can (and should) provide multiple communication options for your employees. Employees should have the option to use video conferencing, standard conference calls, or collaboration tools and internal messaging platforms. 

While you want to give your employees options, you should set expectations for when it’s appropriate to use different channels. For instance, disciplinary conversations should always be face-to-face, whether it’s in person or via video for remote employees. And employees should avoid scheduling team meetings for simple project updates that can be covered in a short email. 

Understand differences in values and motivations 

Work ethics vary from generation to generation. Older generations tend to stay with a company longer, while younger generations may have greater expectations of their employer and are more likely to leave if their work isn’t personally fulfilling. While members of the older generations are used to coming in and getting the job done, no matter what, younger generations are more motivated by praise and guidance. Since we are all products of our environment and experiences, these viewpoints aren’t right or wrong. They’re just different, and in the end, a healthy balance between each viewpoint is best. Always remember the power of praise, as it is a key motivator regardless of someone’s generation. 

Ask, don’t assume 

Miscommunication causes dissension in the ranks. And you know what they say about assuming. So, encourage your team to communicate. Rather than assuming the worst about their co-workers, they should engage them in conversation and ask questions. They are, after all, each working toward the same goals. Lead your team by example, breaking down the typical stereotypes along the way. 

Remove barriers to communication between generations 

You may not realize it, but your workplace design plays an important role in supporting or hindering communication between generations. An outdated workplace where employees sit in cubicles with physical barriers isn’t as likely to foster the kind of casual conversation that builds strong relationships. At the same time, a completely open office design can be distracting to employees who are accustomed to more traditional environments. It also affects introverts who need a quieter place to be productive. Make sure your office has the right mix of space — including large meeting rooms, huddle areas designed for collaboration and quiet areas employees can reserve at a moment’s notice. 

Be willing to teach and be taught 

Regardless of how much you have experienced or how much schooling you have, there is always more we can learn. Millennials and Gen Z can learn some great lessons from older generations that they can apply to every aspect of their lives. Gen Xers and Baby Boomers can learn from the younger generations as well — and not just about technology. Always encourage learning and growth within your team. 

Acknowledge differences 

While it may be tempting to downplay or gloss over generational differences in the workforce, it’s better to acknowledge and embrace them. Use them as tools and encourage your team to use these variances as a chance to learn and grow. You did, after all, hire each for their strengths and what they have to offer. 

Personalize your approach to communication in the workplace 

One of your primary duties as a facility manager is to ensure your employees have what they need, when they need it. A happy employee is a productive employee. One of the best ways to ensure this gets done is to know your team as individuals. Never make assumptions based on their age, sex, or position. Try to discover what works best for each and adjust your efforts accordingly. Remember, just because you are in charge does not mean your way is always the right way. You may even learn something you hadn’t considered before. 

There have been massive changes in our world since the first Baby Boomers were born in the mid 1940s. These changes have led to significant differences between generations and in how each generation communicates in their workplace. A great leader strives to understand their workforce, with a willingness to learn along the way. By trying to better understand each generation and support them, you will empower everyone to do their best work. 

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Jonathan writes about asset management, maintenance software, and SaaS solutions in his role as a digital content creator at Eptura. He covers trends across industries, including fleet, manufacturing, healthcare, and hospitality, with a focus on delivering thought leadership with actionable insights. Earlier in his career, he wrote textbooks, edited NPC dialogue for video games, and taught English as a foreign language. He holds a master's degree in journalism.