—THEODORE ROOSEVELT In today’s workplace, it’s not unusual to find people from four different generations, each one with its own unique cultural and communications styles, values, needs, and wants. When intergenerational conflicts arise—and they always do—productivity and profitability suffer. Each generation has its own, unique communication preferences and ideas on how work should get done. If you understand these preferences and ideas, you’ll be able to build relationships with those who can advance your career. Say you’re in the habit of showing up for work late. Boomers are going to have a real problem with that because they’re big on rules and believe that everyone should be on time every time. (I’m not saying that you make coming into the office late a habit, but if you’re getting your work done at home, you’re likely to ask yourself why being a few minutes late every once in a while is such a big deal.) Keep in mind that not everyone in a particular generation will react the same way in the same situation.
