Supervisor Communication
for Multigenerational Teams

While generational characteristics offer helpful context, every individual is unique and may not identify with associated traits. Understanding each generation's communication style is crucial to collaboration.

• Communication preferences may cause miscommunication and interpersonal conflict
• Individual traits will outweigh generational norms
• There’s no match for developing professional relationships with your team

Technology is an integral part of our lives and using it effectively is critical to success in most workplaces.

• Regardless of the benefits of technology, most generations prefer face-to-face communication
• Common communication tools include email, online messaging, video calls, text, phone calls, and in-person

Effective communication depends on everyone’s willingness to adapt, and every team member plays a role. Set expectations for your team’s communication with a plan.

• Establish acceptable communication methods
• Respect individual preferences when possible
• Plan for conflict with a process to address issues

Understanding generational communication styles offers important context for multigenerational teams. But it's even more important to develop personal relationships to learn how everyone works best.

• Use this printable download to share your team members’ preferred communication methods. Download the printable resource.