A message to seasoned coworkers; text first, a call may not even be necessary!

Are your coworkers a generation or two younger than you?  Do they communicate differently than when you got your start in the business world?

Communication methods and styles are significantly different and often they can clash; because what seems natural to one group might be unusual or impractical to another.

Differing perspectives and expectations will be challenging and sometimes humorous. The key to adapting is to accept these differences rather than resist them. Not an easy task.

Note: Many of the points listed below have been shared with me by real seasoned employees.

You might ask, “Why should I concede to these new ways?”. Here are a few reasons:

  • Bluntly put, because you are on your way out.
  • Because today’s workplace is ever-changing, especially because of technology.
  • And because it will blur the generation gap between you and your junior coworkers.

How today’s junior coworkers view common workplace activities, communication, and relationships:

Meetings:

  • Sometimes looked upon as a waste of time (That’s nothing new).
  • Prefer virtual vs. in-person. Or email or text the information.
  • Consider it optional to attend.
  • Lack of eye contact. Believe it is acceptable to multi-task during a meeting. Especially if it’s virtual.

Social Media:

  • Used as a form of communication. Get on it and learn the basics.

Strict Work Hours:

  • It is not always possible to adhere to strict hours. The task will get done, maybe not within your time frame.
  • Mind and body are considered; seek to be aligned and balanced.

Method of Communication

  • Text to initiate conversation.
  • Calls will go directly to voicemail. A voicemail isn’t always necessary. Often, calls will be replied to by text.
  • Emails are not usually formal. Brief sentences with necessary information.

Business Attire:

You are welcome to dress how you like. However, if you stand out too much, it can drive a wedge among your junior coworkers. You also don’t want to copy-cat their style. Seek assistance from an image consultant or a trustworthy friend for tips.

I will admit that some junior coworkers have taken shabby chic to a lower level; wearing unwashed clothes and lacking in personal hygiene.

Personal Life:

  • To be shared.
  • Coworkers express empathy and understanding if not fully present that day.

Appointments:

  • Timeliness is not always possible. Flexibility please.
  • Last-minute cancellations aren’t a big deal.

FINAL THOUGHTS:

This is slightly exaggerated and sprinkled with a little humor. However, my survey indicates that there is the propensity for junior employees to view the workplace and a job with less magnitude than generations before them.

Finding common ground requires both, the new and the seasoned employees to listen, show a little patience, and communicate. In some cases, age isn’t relevant, it comes down to individual ethics.

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. The tips I provide are general, not taking into account the details and circumstances of a situation or dilemma. 

Professional Development; Soft Skills Development; Productive Communication Techniques, including texts, emails, virtually, social skills, picking up on social cues, office gossip, business dining

Contact me to discuss how we can work together by providing a customized workshop for your staff. Workshop are available for college students, community organizations, sales team, actors, athletes attending fundraisers, general professional development, support Code of Conduct, to support implementing new employee standards in 2025.

 

 

 

 

 

Photo: Pexels