![\"How](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/How-to-Improve-Communication-Across-Generations-at-Work-cover-1.png\")
<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\nCommunication preferences by generation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
While it’s crucial to treat each employee as an individual and not succumb to generational bias, being aware of some general differences between generations isn\u2019t a bad thing. Although not all generations are members of the global workforce, we can account for seven living generations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- The Greatest Generation (born 1901\u20131927)<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Silent Generation<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- The Baby Boomers<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Gen X<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Millennials<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Gen Z <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Generation Alpha (born 2013\u2013present) <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
To get a better understanding of what shaped the five<\/strong> working generations\u2019 views of workplace communication, let\u2019s examine what events have made an impact on them<\/a>, what they expect at work, and how they prefer to communicate with others: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Silent Generation: \u201cTraditionalists\u201d <\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Born between 1928 and 1945 <\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Age 76+<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They make up about 2% of the US workforce<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Who is the Silent Generation? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Growing up in the shadow of the Great Depression and WWll, the Silent Generation is the second oldest generation alive (preceded only by the Greatest Generation). Some of them are still working \u2014 some because they want to, others because they have to. They were raised in a world without present-day technology and other modern amenities. Many have lived through difficult economic times and have thus learned to be financially diligent. Thanks to their strong core values, they work very hard.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Ideal workplace setting for the Silent Generation <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Although being familiar with modern technology, most Silent Generationers aren\u2019t that comfortable using it. To create a positive work environment for a member of this generation, you should try to provide offline options for task completion and project management. This generation appreciates personal interactions and is most likely to thrive on face-to-face communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 How to manage a member of the Silent Generation?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Silent Gen prefers speaking upfront and having in-person discussions. Your entire workforce could benefit from picking the brains of Silent Generationers, so encourage them to share their knowledge and expertise with others. To truly connect with a member of the Silent Generation, go with a written note.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Preferred way of communication for the Silent Generation<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Most members of the Silent Generation<\/a> prefer a strictly formal way of communication. They remain faithful to the written word and appreciate being consulted for important questions or problems. For them, respect, hierarchy, and experience play a crucial role \u2014 they tend to reinforce the use of formal titles. Moreover, they are great rule-followers<\/a> with respect for authority and structure, including perfect grammar and impeccable manners. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n Communication made easy, no matter the generation<\/span>\nEmpower your team and boost productivity in real time. Try Pumble by CAKE.com.<\/p>\n\n
\n Sign up<\/a>\n\n Learn more<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nThe Baby Boomers: \u201cThe Counterculture Generation\u201d <\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Born between 1946 and 1964<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Age 57\u201375<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They make up about 25% of the US workforce<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Who are Baby Boomers? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The members of the Baby Boomer generation are considered the wealthiest and most influential generation in the world \u2014 they make a significant part of the <\/a>modern<\/a>-day workforce<\/a>. They have lived through some quite violent events, including several wars, the JFK assassination, and the MLK assassination. Despite that, Baby Boomers are known for their work-ethic and goal-centric tendencies \u2014 many hold positions in state and federal governments. Even though they didn\u2019t grow up with technology, they are more comfortable using it at work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Ideal workplace setting for Baby Boomers <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
For Baby Boomers, job security is a top priority. Similar to the Silent Gen, Baby Boomers thrive on formal and structured work settings. Having been raised without digital communication, this generation is more compliant with group meetings interactions and generally more flexible at work. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 How to manage a member of the Baby Boomer Generation?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Hard-working as they are, Baby Boomers value being recognized for their knowledge and skills. They are usually experts in their fields and are often very happy to share their knowledge. They should be encouraged to mentor younger workers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Preferred way of communication for Baby Boomers <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Great supporters of face-to-face communication, Baby Boomers value formality and directness in communication. They also tend to rely on email and phones for workplace communication, considering that\u2019s the closest there is to in-person communication. Baby Boomers appreciate being given background information and details. They like their communication balanced between email, voicemail, meetings, and in-person communication.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n Collaborate in real time<\/span>\nSecure and reliable team communication app for professionals. Try Pumble.<\/p>\n\n
\n Sign up<\/a>\n\n Learn more<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nGen X: \u201cThe Slacker Generation\u201d <\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Born between 1965 and 1980<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Age 41\u201356<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They make up about 33% of the US workforce<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Who is Gen X? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The members of Gen X were mostly shaped by two major events \u2014 the Challenger disaster (1986) and the Gulf War (1991) \u2014 but others had their share as well. Coming between the Baby Boomers and Millennials, Gen Xers are sometimes referred to as \u201cin-betweeners\u201d. Self-reliant, resourceful, and industrious, this generation has also been shaped by the rise of personal computers. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Ideal workplace setting for Gen X<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The majority of the Gen Xers prefer a work environment that puts more emphasis on individuality. In an ideal workplace, they would be provided with greater physical and psychological space and the flexibility to manage their workload and achieve \u201ca healthy work-life balance\u201d \u2014 many believe they were the ones to invent this phrase<\/a>. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 How to manage a member of Gen X?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Gen Xers aren\u2019t fond of being supervised and would thrive on being allowed greater autonomy to complete their work-related tasks. Most members of this generation are already well-established in their careers and can be resourceful assets to the entire company thanks to their immense experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Preferred way of communication for Gen X<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Generation Xers appreciate flexible and informal communication, making them comfortable using various channels of communication<\/a>. Members of this generation mostly prefer communicating via emails, but an occasional phone call, text, or meeting will also do the trick. They also feel that the technology should support their professional growth but are known for shunning micromanagement in the workplace. They prefer being contacted only during office hours, as they value their freedom and time off immensely. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ditch email and improve your communication by switching to Pumble<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Millennials: \u201cThe Last to Grow up Offline\u201d<\/em> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Born between 1981 and 1996<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Age 25\u201340<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They make up 33% of the US workforce population<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Who are Millennials? <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Comprising the majority of the current workforce, the majority of Millennials cite 9\/11 as the event that has made the greatest impact on them. Many of them have started working during the Great Recession, which additionally shaped their view of long-term careers. As they grew up in the Internet revolutionized society, they find it easy to adapt to and accept digital communication and modern technology. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Ideal workplace setting for Millennials <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
For most Millennials, understanding their company\u2019s vision and doing a job that helps make the world a better place is the dream work setting. They are always looking for a deeper meaning, so nurturing, inclusive, and diverse work settings work to their advantage. They are the first generation to fully embrace remote and hybrid work<\/a> \u2014 considering that the majority of them do jobs that can be completed outside the office, such as project management positions, designer positions, or content production positions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 How to manage a member of the Millennial Generation?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Supporters of constructive feedback, Millennials value transparency and honesty, both in life and at work. According to them, employees shouldn\u2019t be judged by the number of hours they spend working but rather by the quality of their work \u2014 making them amazing at multitasking. This generation will thrive in a work environment that ensures clarity and takes care of their well-being \u2014 Millennials will feel appreciated and motivated to do their best work there. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Preferred way of communication for Millennials<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Considering they grew up texting their friends and family, most Millennials appreciate communication that facilitates team collaboration and teamwork. They thrive on using instant messaging<\/a>, chatting, and emailing \u2014 they don\u2019t feel the same about in-person meetings and conversations. According to a CompTIA report, 71% of Millennials said they would choose their workplace based on the technology it offers. Moreover, they are the ones supporting the embrace of cloud-based technology in the workplace.<\/p>\n\n\n
\n![\"Millennials](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Millennials-prefer-to-communicate-important-information-via-business-messaging-apps-such-as-Pumble.png\")
Millennials prefer to communicate important information via business messaging apps such as Pumble<\/em> by CAKE.com<\/em><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n Give Pumble a try<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gen Z: \u201cThe Technology Inherent\u201d<\/em><\/h3>\n\n\n\n
- \n
- Born between 1997 and 2012<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- Age 9\u201424<\/li>\n\n\n\n
- They make up 20.3% of the US population <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Who is Gen Z?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
The youngest generation in the workforce, it\u2019s hard to say what events will impact Gen Z. Born and raised as digital natives, they are greatly dependent on smartphones and other modern devices. Thanks to the environment they grew up in, they are more focused on people and their personalities, rather than race or ethnicity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Ideal workplace setting for Gen Z <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Some of them have witnessed the 2008 financial crisis, so Gen Z members value security at work above anything else. When looking for a job, they mostly focus on stable and long-term opportunities \u2014 they will stay with the same company for a few years before moving on. Their ideal workplace would be a flexible one<\/a> that allows them complete tasks as they see fit and includes them in process improvements. Flexible working hours and social responsibility are also quite high on their workplace priority list.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 How to manage a member of Gen Z?<\/h4>\n\n\n\n
Gen Z prefers highly collaborative management relationships and engaging with others in person. They look up to companies with a clear and strong mission, believing this helps them learn and grow professionally. Companies that take good care of their employees by investing in their development are the best ones for Gen Zers \u2014 they will thrive on the possibility of being mentored, coached, and taught by senior employees. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\ud83d\udd38 Preferred way of communication for Gen Z <\/h4>\n\n\n\n
With Gen Z, communication should be as transparent<\/a> as possible \u2014 this is why they need immediate feedback. They can\u2019t understand how people managed to work without technology as they were practically born with smartphones in their hands<\/a>. They rely on video and voice communication, preferring to do most of their work with their mobile phones. Their expectations are high when it comes to the technology at work and would prefer to use their own devices for work purposes. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n
\n\n Communication made easy for all generations<\/span>\nEmpower your team and boost productivity in real time. Try Pumble.<\/p>\n\n
\n Sign up<\/a>\n\n Learn more<\/a>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n\n\n\n \n ![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1.png\")
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\nThe overview of communication preferences by generation <\/h3>\n\n\n\n
In his piece<\/a> on communication between different generations, Robert Muray illustrates the key differences between Baby Boomers, Gen X, and Millennials in the workplace. For the needs of the growing workforce, we\u2019ll expand his illustration to include the Silent Generation and Gen Z as well. Here are the key differences in communication across different generations:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/features@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/templates@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-1@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n![\"An](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/An-example-of-a-conversation-between-two-employees-from-different-generations-in-Pumble.jpg\")
![\"Illustration\"](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/cake-blog\/theme\/images\/banners\/landing-2@2x.png)
\n <\/picture>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n \n\n\n\n![\"Setting](\"https:\/\/pumble.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/11\/Setting-up-a-profile-in-Pumble.jpg\")