We understand the importance of emotional intelligence in the workplace and how different personality types can think and feel differently. But do you consider the generations in your ways of working and their different communication preferences?
Different generations have their own language and it’s likely you are working with diverse groups, so it’simportant to understand their motivations and the support they need.
Known as ‘GQ’ or generational intelligence it is the ability to understand and respect the generational differences in the workplace. Too many work cultures affect team morale by ignoring these shifts in behaviours, and, if we are illiterate in GQ, we may miss out on opportunities and communicate poorly.
Traditionalists, Boomers, Gen X, Millennials or Gen Y and Gen Z are all currently in the workforce, so where do you begin? That’s five generations all working together defined by their shared culture, technology, and world events. Hyping up the differences isn’t always the most helpful place to start. How about the commonalities? Good GQ can lead to growth, appreciation, support, flexibility…and of course positive conversation.
Maybe we can’t influence the right people because our GQ is poor. For example: Picking up the phone may seem more productive to a baby boomer, traditionalist or even a Gen X – but consider that the person you are contacting may be from a later generation when messaging and texting and digital comms are not just preferred but more engaging. There should be a willingness to adapt and understand on both sides.
Our huunuu team is a prime example, we span four generations and are beginning to understand the GQ differences within our team. Respect is always our number one way of interacting across the board of course, and there is a lot to be said for leaving preconceptions behind. Yet it is also important to notice when cross-generational interactions crop up and acknowledge these different approaches. We understand the importance of having honest conversations and this is a great place to start healthy workplace habits.
It is also important that the organisation doesn’t imply through their behaviours that one generation is ‘better’ than a different one. Each person has lots of value to give and should feel supported. If tech isn’t someone’s strong point for example, you can bet something else is, and that may not be comfortable for someone of a different generation.
There are many benefits to strong GQ: Better collaboration and adaptive teams. The importance of listening and active listening to name a few. Learning how to bridge the generational divide that may exist in your team enables issue resolution. To be adaptable is to thrive.
huunuu’s time to talk work mat enables teams to learn the skills of conversation. Contact findoutmore@huunuu.com to see how we can help.
