Generations at Work 006: Bridging the Generational Gap with Communication
Apr 8, 2025
Dr. Tim Elmore, a generational leadership expert and author, dives into the challenges of communication across generations in the workplace. He dissects how different communication styles can clash, particularly between Gen Z and older generations. Tim emphasizes the necessity of establishing clear communication norms and traditions to build engagement. The duo discusses how timely communication can prevent misunderstandings and the importance of understanding the emotional context behind conversations. Leaders must balance personal connections with collective goals for a harmonious work environment.
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Private Screens Widen The Gap
- The generation gap widened as screens moved from shared to private, creating different platforms and norms.
- Leaders must set clear communication norms early to prevent cross-generational confusion.
Scheduling Protocol Misstep
- A Gen Z employee emailed a boss with a link to fit her schedule to a mandatory meeting, revealing protocol gaps.
- Tim used it to illustrate younger hires may not know workplace norms about deference to supervisors.
Power Gap Fuels Avoidance
- There's a power gap at work causing some employees to ignore leaders' requests.
- Democratization of the workforce can lead to avoidance of difficult conversations.
