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Intergenerational Teams

Q. What do all people want regardless of age, gender or race? To be heard, respected and belong.

A. When it comes to multigenerational teams, research indicates that people are more likely to communicate based on generational backgrounds based on attitudes, behaviors, expectations and habits. This has positive and negative benefits for organizations and can lead to joint problem solving or misunderstandings and conflict. Therefore, it is advantageous to understand the dynamics that exist in different generations and assist people develop the interpersonal skills needed to communicate effectively.

Effective team work requires a level of consciousness, tolerance and humility. If team members are able to withhold judgement (remain open), listen, appreciate each other and allow space for colleagues to be heard, this fosters an atmosphere of cooperation, trust and is more likely to result in creative problem solving instead of fear and control.