We have defined intergenerational communications, and discussed “generation gap” and misconceptions. [1] https://agewelleveryday.org/?p=6238&preview=true&_thumnail_id=6245
In this concluding post, we look at developing positive relationships across generations, from the perspective of the older generation.
Many of us have grandchildren, grown up children, and of course friends, colleagues, and relatives of our generation. We also interact with friends and relatives from different generations. It is thus not difficult to come up with some strategies. And there are also helpful articles we can refer to.
We can think of three strategies in helping ourselves develop positive relationships.
- Get rid of stereotypes and misconceptions
- Connect up with old and young
- Manage the multigenerational workplace
Get rid of stereotypes and misconceptions
Young or old, we actually use more than one mode of communication routinely namely, face-to-face, email, virtual platforms, and webinars. Ms Hannah Downs proved in her survey in 2019, that the Millennial generation was not scant in the frequency of face-to-face communications: in fact they surpassed the Baby Boomers.
Connect up with old and young
When old and young people form meaningful relationships, it improves both groups’ well being so says Marc Freedman in an 2019 article. [2] https://greatergood.berkeley.edu/item/what_happens_when_old_and_young_connect
He says: “An accumulating body of research on purpose, generativity, relationships, and face-to-fact contact suggests that engagement with others that flows down the generational chain may well make you healthier, happier and possibly longer-lived.”
There are many opportunities to connect up and extend our well-being. as for example, a chance encounter at the supermarket, meeting up with friends, social functions, and the list goes on.
Manage your multigenerational workplace
Some of us, if not all of us, still have a managerial role e.g., managing the domestic help at home. Some of us are still working, be it part-time or full-time. Ms Heidi Lynne Kurter has 5 powerful tips to offer those of us who are in the managerial role. [3] https://www.forbes.com/sites/heidilynnekurter/2020/08/18/5-powerful-tips-that-will-help-you-manage-your-multigenerational-workplace/?sh=5a4c77ad3304
1-Encourage collaboration through knowledge sharing
Younger team members can bring fresh perspectives to projects. Combined with insight from experienced and older employees who have worked for years in the industry, novel solutions can surface.
2-Discover the best ways to communicate
Managers can achieve more by using various methods of communication to reach each generation and convey the message as often as needed. Make it a priority to seek and give feedback. Encourage new ways of doing things even if they appear difficult.
3-Reduce misinterpretations through clearly defined expectations
Keeping everyone on the same page requires setting goals and defining expectations. Having consistent check-ins are useful in spotting who needs additional explanation and/or coaching. On a similar note, managers should communicate what will be covered in meetings in advance. Priorities, deadlines, and urgencies should also be communicated to avoid any misinterpretations and disruptions.
4-Address diverse needs with a fair and flexible policy
There is no one-size-fits-all approach. Flexibility is important for all generations. Younger workers may need time off for children related situations; older generations may need time off for health issues. Each employee’s life situation is different. Managers who are flexible and open minded towards each generation are likely to strike and maintain a balance.
5-Don’t treat everyone the same way
Each generation has different social norms, attitudes, expectations and working styles. And within the same generation, there can also be a diversity of behaviours. Nevertheless, at the end of the day, whichever generation you are from, we want the same thing. We want to succeed, to be recognised for our contributions, enjoy where we work, feel supported, and be a part of the team we are in. Training, coaching, patience, check-ins, encouragement and support are the tools we can use to balance things.
Take home messages
Intergenerational communications, generation gaps and misconceptions, and positive relationships are part and parcel of living harmoniously with multigenerations of people. Enjoy.
Dr LG Goh
Dr GOH Lee Gan is a retired Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine, National University Health System. He has an interest in learning and teaching how we can age well everyday (AWE).
