With multiple generations currently active in the workforce, we have an extremely broad range of childhood experiences with technology to consider. And although it's not accurate to say all Gen Z employees are this way, or all Boomers have that attitude, we know that how employees grew up communicating and accessing information impacts their expectations for technology at work.
Technology usage and preferences become even more important in a hybrid workplace, where communications, collaboration and culture building all depend on digital channels. If you're charged with engaging employees in communications, here are five points to consider.
Gen Z is steadily tilling the entry-level ranks, many of them starting their first job during the pandemic. This may make them more interested in face-to face interaction in the office, if only for the novelty. But they'll also expect their companies to have great technology. For instance, they may quickly grow frustrated with a clunky intranet.
The first generation to grow up with smartphones is accustomed to instant gratification when they want to know something. At work, they have an expectation of platforms that make the tools and informationthey need fast and easy to access. These digital natives may spend more time interacting on their phones than on laptops.
Gen X is sometimes considered the bridge between the analog and digital worlds, and many value time to disconnect and interact person-to-person. Still, they rely on technology to support their productivity, collaboration, innovation and ability to connect with others. They're quick to adapt to new platforms or technology they deem useful.
Although you can expect Boomers to own smartphones and be comfortable interacting online, keep in mind that their early work experiences were very different from offices today. There were no laptops, or even desktop computers.Instead, they might have had a typist stationed outside their office door. So give them credit for adapting to changing technology.
They may differ in their preferred platform - such as GenZ and Millennials preferring text to email, or Gen Z spending more time onTikTok and BeReal while Boomers are still faithful to Facebook - but human connections online are familiar to all. This is a tremendous advantage in helping to build and maintain culture in a hybrid work environment.
