I still remember the day my mother told me, that her father brought home a black and white television. It was among the first televisions made in the country. The family was so excited to view the “magic box”, that could bring them programs to watch from across the country and from all over the world. This was a big step from the humble radio, which provided the people of the world with news, broadcasts, and entertainment.
It is always difficult for one generation to understand the older generation. We just assume that they would know about our “world”, but we would not be completely wrong. Generation Z would be more occupied with gaming, while millennials are building a social media presence. However, Generation X and Baby boomers are equally interested and knowledgeable about the web and its potential for the future of the world and the economy. A look at the generations would look something like this and we can just marvel at the generations present in the world today.
Generation Z: born between 2001 and 2020
Millennials: born between 1981 and 2000
Generation X: born between 1965 and 1980
Baby Boomers: born between 1946 and 1964
Silent Generation: born between 1925 and 1945
The older silent generation would love to communicate and get to know things that they do not understand. Mentoring is a two-way street and both parties can benefit from the experience. There are five generations working in the workplace today.
When older colleagues do not respond to text messages sent by team members in the evenings, it is because they keep the evening for rest and relaxation with family and friends. Some individuals may not prefer video calls when they have meetings, so they turn off the cameras. Communication is important in the workplace and in families so that there can be better understanding and this will avoid miscommunication and misunderstanding.
Generation Z and Millennials are looking forward to job-hopping, while Generation X is quite comfortable with working at home or with flexible working. Employers need to establish lines of communication across generations so that all workers can maximize their potential while enhancing the roles they play in the company.