Let’s Train Gen Z to handle senior generations too!

Last week, I had an insightful conversation with my uncle, who works for a local airline. He shared his challenges in working with the newer generations, particularly Gen Z. His company recently conducted training sessions to help senior employees understand and adapt to Gen Z’s unique characteristics and work styles. While he appreciated the effort, he raised a thought-provoking question: “Why don’t we also train Gen Z to work effectively with senior generations?” This question highlights an important gap, especially in a South Asian context like Sri Lanka, where cultural values and workplace expectations often differ significantly from Western norms. It’s a reminder that while each generation has its strengths, understanding and adapting to others is a two-way street.

How Gen Z Corporate Professionals Can Effectively Handle Millennials

This article aims to help Gen Z corporate workers understand and work better with Millennials, an important generation in the modern workplace.

1. Understand Different Work Styles

One major difference between Gen Z and Millennials is how they view work-life balance. Millennials entered the job market during tough economic times, so they often prioritize flexibility and the chance to manage their work and personal lives. Many looks for jobs that allow remote work or flexible schedules.

In contrast, Gen Z is more focused on having stability and structure in their careers. They also care about work-life balance but are usually more interested in building a solid career and advancing in their jobs. It’s important for Gen Z to understand that Millennials may value flexibility and independence, so they should respect these preferences while providing clear guidance and support when necessary.

2. Adapt to Communication Preferences

Effective communication is essential in any workplace, especially for Gen Z professionals who need to connect with Millennials. Millennials usually prefer talking in person or using emails for detailed discussions. They appreciate meaningful conversations and often look for personal connections in their work relationships.

In contrast, Gen Z is more familiar with quick, digital forms of communication like texting and instant messaging. While this method is great for fast updates, it might not be suitable for more complex or sensitive topics.

To communicate well with Millennials, Gen Z professionals should adjust their style. Although digital communication is quick and easy, it’s important to have face-to-face meetings or phone calls for significant discussions. This approach respects Millennials’ preferences and helps build stronger connections.

3. Collaborate and Be Open to Teamwork

Millennials really like to work together and be part of a team. They do best in places where they can share their thoughts, join in discussions, and learn from each other. For Gen Z workers, this means it’s important to work collaboratively with Millennials.

Even though Gen Z is often seen as independent, they need to recognize that Millennials appreciate teamwork and solving problems together. Instead of just assigning tasks, Gen Z should aim to collaborate, share ideas, and help their Millennial teammates reach common goals.

Being open to teamwork not only makes the workplace more welcoming and positive but also promotes idea sharing and sparks innovation. By getting involved in team projects and valuing Millennials’ contributions, Gen Z can create stronger working relationships.

4. Respect Their Experience and Knowledge

Millennials have been working for some time and have a lot of experience and knowledge. Gen Z may have new ideas and skills, but they should appreciate the expertise that Millennials bring. Instead of ignoring or downplaying their experience, Gen Z should approach Millennials with respect and a desire to learn. By asking for advice, seeking feedback, and recognizing Millennials’ contributions, Gen Z can build trust and foster a positive work environment.

At the same time, Gen Z should feel confident in sharing their own thoughts and ideas. The goal is to balance learning from Millennials while also adding their own unique viewpoints to discussions.

5. Provide Feedback and Recognition

Millennials, like all generations, want to be recognized for their hard work. They appreciate getting regular feedback and acknowledgment for what they do. Gen Z workers should remember to give constructive feedback and praise when it’s deserved. Positive reinforcement can greatly enhance motivation and lift spirits. Whether it’s recognizing a job well done in a team meeting or sending a quick thank-you message, taking a moment to appreciate a Millennial’s efforts can strengthen professional ties.

Additionally, Gen Z should be open to receiving feedback as well. Millennials value direct and honest communication, so being willing to accept their feedback can help build mutual respect and improve teamwork.

6. Leverage Technology, But Don’t Overwhelm

Gen Z is known as the “digital native” generation. They are very skilled with technology and can easily use various tools and platforms to make their work easier. Millennials are also comfortable with tech, having seen digital tools grow during their careers.

While Gen Z is excited to bring in new technologies to boost productivity, it’s crucial not to overwhelm Millennials with too many options. Millennials might prefer sticking to the tools they already know, and too many new systems at once can lead to confusion or pushback.

Gen Z professionals should aim to use technology to improve teamwork and efficiency without disrupting their Millennial coworkers’ routines. This could mean introducing new tools slowly, providing training sessions, or giving clear guidance on how to use them.

Conclusion

Although Gen Z and Millennials have their differences, they can collaborate successfully by understanding and valuing each other’s preferences, strengths, and work habits. Gen Z workers can effectively engage with Millennials by promoting teamwork, adjusting their communication styles, appreciating their experience, and offering feedback and recognition. By establishing common ground and encouraging mutual respect, both generations can unite to reach common objectives and build a positive, productive work environment.

Chathura Ganegoda (BSc (USJP), MCIM (UK), MBA(UOC))
“Lead the world to New Dimensions.”
LinkedIn – @Chathura Ganegoda
Email – Chathura.d.ganegoda@gmail.com
WhatsApp – 0777371229