Bridging The Generation Gap

When I started my first post-grad gig I assumed there would be a variety of generations working together within individual offices and departments. Duh. But I also assumed that this diverse group of employees would work side-by side without difficulty, seamlessly flying through the office as a super-human team of generational connectors. Ah how deep my naivety runs.

Being among the youngest in my workplace, I spend a lot of my day interacting with co-workers and clients who are significantly older than me. Most of the time there are little to no issues — nothing so major that it can’t be resolved with a little more explanation or a quip about me being the new kid.

But I have run into some issues that have proved to be a little more challenging.

Communication is the number one concern I have between the generations. I have to really think about how I’m going to explain an issue or idea depending on who I’m talking to. Whether it’s face-to-face, over the phone or via email, I’ve learned that how you say it is much more important than what you’re actually saying.

Technologyalso plays into this concern. I’m quite the opposite of a computer geek – in fact I usually crash any piece of technology I come into contact with, but I’m still generally quick to adapt to new software and updated programs. Gen Y just gets it. We’ve grown up with computers so we take it for granted, however this is not the case for all employees in the office. Another duh. The level of IT skill varies greatly from worker to worker, so I’ve learned to not roll my eyes when asked how to convert something to PDF format for the eight-hundredth time. I have to understand that what seems so easy to me is quite the opposite for someone else. Besides, being helpful when it comes to computer problems will pay off when you need assistance doing something your tech savvy can’t help you on — like how to word a project proposal to the company’s oldest and most loyal customer. Teamwork makes the dream work.

In the end, I really do believe that all it takes is a little patience and some good old fashioned hard work in order to make your office pleasant and productive despite the age difference.

What are some issues you have seen between generations in your workplace?

Any ideas for improvement?

-Marilyn