Back Page: Improving relationships

Denise Ryan presented “Bridging the generation gap” session at the 2012 OFA Short Course and addressed how to interact with employees and customers that are part of another generation so your business can be effective. Ryan, who leads FireStar Speaking and is a professional motivational business speaker, talked about what makes people in these generations tick and also what turns them off so you can ensure your communication is well-received and bridge the gaps more effectively.

When it comes to the World War II generation, those ages 67 to 90, it’s important that you recognize them for a job well-done. People in this generation prefer face-to-face communication and traditional rewards, such as plaques and pictures with the CEO. They also like hand-written notes, so take the time to thank them in writing — and actually writing it, not typing it.

When you’re interacting with this generation, it’s important to recognize their turn-offs as well. They don’t like profanity or slang. They don’t like disorganization or lacking respect for institutions. They also don’t like poor grammar or disrespect.

When you’re working with the boomer generation, those ages 48 to 66, it’s important to know that they like money and titles. They like to be recognized for their work — but only when it’s based on performance. They also want to know they’re important to the company’s success and they want public recognition.

On the flip side, the things that turn them off are when people are abrupt and unfriendly or don’t show interest in them. They don’t like it when people aren’t politically correct and they don’t like shows of power.

When it comes to working with Generation X, those ages 32 to 47, the key is freedom. They like to have the outcome defined but don’t want to be micromanaged in the process. They want a flexible work environment.

The things that really get under their skin and that will create communication barriers are flashiness, bureaucracy, corporate-speak and using time inefficiently.

Then, lastly, Generation Y is those ages 12 to 31, and they want to have work that has meaning. They like working with other bright, creative people and they want the chance to make a difference. They also want to embrace the latest and greatest technologies.

When it comes to making sure you don’t offend them, generally speaking they don’t like cynicism, sarcasm, condensation or unfairness.
 

For more: FireStar Speaking, (919) 788-0291 or www.firestarspeaking.com