Lost Network Connections: Intergenerational Communication And The Communication Chasm

OK Boomer, OK Zoomer: hosts Em and Craig look at solving the Workplace Generation Puzzle, examining how different generational experiences shape values, communication styles, and workplace expectations.

Key Discussion Points:

• Four Generations in the Workforce: Em explains that for the first time, we have four generations simultaneously in the workplace (Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Z), each with different value systems and communication preferences, causing previously successful workplace programs to fail.

• Generational Overview: The hosts provide a historical context of generations:

  • Silent Generation (1920s-1945): Conformist, compliant, strong work ethic
  • Baby Boomers (1946-1964): Adapted to digital revolution, valued gift of gab
  • Generation X (1965-1980): Independent, pragmatic, bridged analog-digital divide
  • Millennials/Gen Y (1981-1996): Digital natives, collaborative
  • Gen Z/iGen (1997-2010): Visual learners, social media natives
  • Alpha Generation (2010-present): Future-focused, already emerging through social media

• Technological Evolution: Craig shares how Gen X witnessed tremendous technological changes, from analog television to digital media, and how this shapes communication preferences. Em notes how modern recording technology that once required expensive equipment is now available on smartphones.

• Communication Medium Preferences: The hosts discuss how different generations prefer different communication methods, with Gen Z often anxious about phone calls while older generations value them. Craig suggests younger people might stand out positively by calling rather than texting.

• Psychological Impacts: Em highlights the "spotlight effect" where teenagers feel all eyes are on them, but explains how social media has amplified this for younger generations by making this surveillance real and constant, contributing to mental health challenges.

• Generational Tensions: The hosts acknowledge the resentment between generations, with younger people frustrated about housing affordability, environmental issues, and economic challenges while older generations criticize work ethic and respect for authority.

• Finding Common Ground: Despite different expressions, all generations share fundamental human desires for validation, appreciation, respect, and belonging. Em emphasizes that finding this common humanity is essential for workplace harmony.

• Crisis as Unifier: Craig references "The Fourth Turning" by Neil Howe, noting how crises like World War II or the early COVID-19 pandemic forced people to come together across generational divides.

Resource Recommendations:

• "Gen Intelligence: The Revolutionary Approach to Leading an Intergenerational Workforce" by Megan Gerhardt, Josephine Harm, and Jeanne Fogle
• "Conversations Between Generations" TED Talk by Vona Turla
• "Remarkable People" podcast by Guy Kawasaki, specifically the interview with David Yeager on "The Science of Motivating Young People"
• "Multi-Generational Workplace: The Insights You Need" from Harvard Business Review