Generational Communication in the workplace: Challenges & Solves

In most business around the world you will find people across different generations working together. This article highlights some of the barrier in communication and some ways of breaking down those barriers.

Research shows that the older generations in the workplace prefer meetings and phone calls, while the younger generations tend to favor instant messaging. Older workers are more accustomed to formal communications, while younger employees communicate in shorter, more casual bursts. (Lancioni, 2025)

Taking the time to understand how each generation communicates requires time and patience, but it is worth the effort. As noted in the SHRM article, "Effective communication is especially important because communication directly impacts how people learn, collaborate, and respond to performance management."

Boomers and Gen X may offer direct feedback, while Millennials and Gen Z often expect it to be framed positively or collaboratively

Gen Z might default to a quick DM, while Boomers may prefer an email or call. Misaligned expectations about communication platforms can delay decision making. 

Encourage teams to learn about generational preferences. Offer opportunities for employees to share their preferred communication techniques, as it will allow them to gain a greater understanding of each other while simultaneously helping the group to recognize its communication norms.

Set expectations around preferred channels, response times and tone—and revisit them regularly

Model adaptive behavior. If you're a leader, try using the platform your team prefers. If you're junior, understand when a more formal mode may be appropriate.

This article really reinforced what I have been learning in my primary research. Every issue that is laid out in the article has been said by someone in either my survey or my interviews. This also supports that there are solutions being actively worked on in places around the world. However, even with solutions in mind these issues remain significant in the day to day lives of many people. And as generations come and go communication barriers will remain a problem as long as there are people working together. So, in reality it's not just about finding solutions but about how to implement them in a way that is lasting. Making the solutions adaptable to fit any situation.

References

Lancioni. K, (June 05, 2025). Talking Across Time: How Generational Communication Styles Shape—And Challenge—The Modern Workplace. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2025/06/05/talking-across-time-how-generational-communication-styles-shape-and-challenge-the-modern-workplace/

Getty Images, (n.d). Talking Across Time: How Generational Communication Styles Shape—And Challenge—The Modern Workplace. Forbes. https://www.forbes.com/councils/forbescoachescouncil/2025/06/05/talking-across-time-how-generational-communication-styles-shape-and-challenge-the-modern-workplace/