We have different needs, wants, and we value different things. Organizations are intentional in delivering and communicating purpose through the company mission, vision, broad goals, specific goals, and strategy to accomplish objectives. Leadership delivery and messaging of the vision is vital for a teamwork driven generation. Building an inclusive communication platform increases the likelihood of reaching the broader audience. Gone are the days of limited scope and reach within an organization. Leadership must assess multiple vehicles of communication to ensure information diversity. Creating a broad inclusivity of data that reaches all audiences.
Boomers use rapport-building techniques to increase communication effectiveness. However, disputes over communication skills and behaviors intensify with the use of technology. These differences can cause limitations and internal conflict or resentment across the multigenerational organization.
Gen X is a more realistic, some say a pessimistic generation that is not likely to follow orders without challenging the status quo. They are dreamers and entrepreneurs seeking to disrupt traditional lines of thinking by demonstrating growth mindsets toward complex problems. They prefer work-life effectiveness versus an always-on approach to business and this shift can upset other generations within the workforce.
Gen Y employees are articulate and self-assured however they have the least amount of experience within the workforce and more precise, organizations. This optimistic generation thinks hard-work, confidence, achievement, and setting goals will lead to their fulfillment of dreams. Other generations, at times, overlook their capability due to their immaturity within a corporate occupation.
The variety of value systems and motivations are the center of communication standards including the diversity of values that are ingrained within the generational segments. Communication skills have intensified stylistically with technology advancement. Where Boomers prefer face-to-face contacts, generation X and Y are more comfortable with email, voicemail, and text messaging conducting business uniquely. Ethical communication is a challenge for leaders managing multigenerational workers. It requires multiple vehicles of content to satisfy the needs of the evolving organization. The art of leadership includes knowing when to involve and excite generational dialogue for the greater good of the organizational structure and advancement of human capital.
Michelle Zeiser
Executive Coach | Strategist | Consultant
@SelfIdeate