How can you effectively handle generational differences during meetings?

1 Know your audience

Before you plan or lead a meeting, do some research on the generational profiles of your participants. What are their preferences, expectations, and values when it comes to meeting formats, agendas, feedback, and follow-up? For example, Baby Boomers may prefer more formal and structured meetings, while Millennials may favor more interactive and flexible ones. Gen Xers may value efficiency and autonomy, while Gen Zers may seek more guidance and feedback. By knowing your audience, you can tailor your meeting style and content to suit their needs and preferences.

2 Respect diversity

Generational diversity is an asset, not a liability, for your team and organization. It brings different perspectives, experiences, and skills that can enrich your meeting outcomes and solutions. However, it also requires respect and appreciation for the differences that exist among your participants. As a leader, you can model this respect by acknowledging and valuing the contributions of each generation, avoiding stereotypes and assumptions, and creating a safe and inclusive space for everyone to share their ideas and opinions.

3 Communicate effectively

Communication is key to any successful meeting, but it can also be challenging when you have generational differences among your participants. Different generations may have different communication styles, preferences, and expectations. For example, some may prefer verbal communication, while others may favor written or visual communication. Some may expect more formal and direct communication, while others may prefer more casual and indirect communication. As a leader, you can communicate effectively by using clear and concise language, adapting your tone and mode of communication to suit your audience, and providing multiple channels and formats for information and feedback.

4 Encourage collaboration

Collaboration is another essential element of any meeting, but it can also be difficult when you have generational differences among your participants. Different generations may have different ways of working together, learning from each other, and solving problems. For example, some may prefer more individualistic and competitive approaches, while others may favor more collaborative and cooperative ones. Some may prefer more hierarchical and authoritative structures, while others may favor more egalitarian and democratic ones. As a leader, you can encourage collaboration by setting clear and common goals, facilitating constructive dialogue and feedback, and leveraging the strengths and talents of each generation.

5 Seek feedback

Finally, as a leader, you can effectively handle generational differences in meetings by seeking feedback from your participants. Feedback is a valuable tool for learning, improvement, and innovation. It can help you understand the needs, preferences, and expectations of your participants, as well as the challenges, opportunities, and successes of your meetings. By seeking feedback, you can also show your respect and appreciation for your participants, and demonstrate your willingness to listen and adapt to their suggestions. You can seek feedback by using surveys, polls, or informal conversations, and by acting on the feedback you receive.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?