Customizing communication across generations

Generational perspective weighs heavily, particularly on our field and our ability to establish a cohesive culture.

This idea first came up in a LinkedIn collaborative article that I contributed to. You will find in this post I’ve added the context from that article along with my thoughts on each consideration.

First we can establish some baseline for what communication is in relation to our work and how it effects our jobs. In the context of safety professionals, our ability to communicate and do it effectively is usually the divider between mediocre and successful programs. Our ability to communicate encompasses the exchange of information, ideas, instructions related to safety practices, protocols, hazards, risk mitigation strategies, the list goes on. Its not enough do develop risk mitigation strategies, if we don’t communicate them well to the end user, then its meaningless.

In terms of customizing communication across varying generations there are 6 considerations that I will add my insights to:

1. Know your audience

2. Choose your channels

3. Adapt your style

4. Engage your workers

5. Respect your differences

6. Learn and improve

Know your audience

The first step to customize your safety communication is to know who you are communicating with. Depending on your industry and organization, you may have workers from four or five different generations, ranging from baby boomers to Gen Z. Each generation has its own characteristics, values, and motivations that influence how they perceive and respond to safety information. For example, baby boomers may value authority and structure, while Gen Z may value flexibility and innovation. You can use surveys, interviews, or focus groups to gather data on your workers' demographics, preferences, and feedback. Understanding the diverse generational perspectives in our workforce is a strength. Embracing these differences, we uncover unique motivations that drive different levels of safety awareness. Utilizing surveys and dialogues, we celebrate varied values, shaping safety initiatives that resonate across generations.

Conduct demographic surveys and organize focus groups to gather insights on generational differences. Use this data to create personas representing each generation's safety preferences and motivations. Tailor safety messages and initiatives based on these personas, ensuring relevance and resonance across the diverse workforce.

Choose your channels

The second step to customize your safety communication is to choose the most effective channels to deliver your message. Different generations may prefer different modes and formats of communication, such as face-to-face, email, text, video, or social media. You may need to use a mix of channels to reach all your workers, but you should also consider their accessibility, frequency, and relevance. For example, face-to-face communication may be more personal and engaging, but it may not be feasible for remote or dispersed workers. Email may be more convenient and formal, but it may not be read or opened by younger workers. Video may be more visual and interactive, but it may require more resources and bandwidth.

In the mosaic of communication channels, recognizing preferences among generations is pivotal. We craft a blend of methods, ensuring accessibility and relevance. Each channel, from face-to-face interaction to tech-driven media, serves a purpose, fostering a culture that can transcend age barriers. To do this you can start with creating a multi-channel communication plan that aligns with the preferences of different generations. Consider employing a mix of methods like in-person meetings, email updates, mobile alerts, and engaging social media platforms. Ensure these channels are accessible, user-friendly, and regularly updated to deliver safety messages effectively.

Adapt your style

The third step to customize your safety communication is to adapt your style to suit your audience. Different generations may have different expectations and preferences for the tone, language, and content of your communication. You should tailor your style to match the level of formality, clarity, and emotion that your workers appreciate and respond to. For example, older workers may prefer a more formal and authoritative tone, while younger workers may prefer a more casual and conversational tone. Older workers may appreciate more detail and explanation, while younger workers may appreciate more brevity and simplicity. Older workers may respond to more emotional and personal stories, while younger workers may respond to more factual and data-driven evidence.

Adaptability defines our approach. Tailoring tone and content, we can bridge generational gaps, speaking a language that resonates across. Embracing diverse expectations, from formal structures to conversational approaches, ensures safety messages are heard and embraced across all ages. Develop flexible communication templates with variable tones, content styles, and formats. Craft safety messages that resonate with each generation's communication preferences, ensuring clarity and relatability. You also want to train safety leaders in how to adjust their communication styles dynamically based on the audience, maintaining engagement and understanding.

Engage your workers

The fourth step to customize your safety communication is to engage your workers in the process. Different generations may have different levels of involvement and participation in safety matters. You should seek to involve your workers in the design, delivery, and evaluation of your safety communication, and provide them with opportunities to share their opinions, feedback, and suggestions. For example, you can invite your workers to join safety committees, contribute to safety newsletters, or create safety videos. You can also ask your workers to rate, comment, or share your safety communication, or to participate in quizzes, polls, or games.

Involving every generation in our safety journey amplifies our collective commitment. From inviting participation in new initiatives to encouraging feedback, we create spaces for each voice to merge. By valuing each perspective, we transform safety communication into a shared responsibility. To do this, we can establish diverse participation opportunities such as safety committees, suggestion boxes, or collaborative workshops. Encourage cross-generational collaboration in safety initiatives, seeking input and feedback through surveys or idea-sharing platforms. Implement suggestions and recognize contributions to foster a sense of ownership and inclusivity.

Respect your differences

The fifth step to customize your safety communication is to respect the differences among your workers. Different generations may have different perspectives, experiences, and attitudes toward safety issues. You should avoid making assumptions, stereotypes, or judgments about your workers based on their age or generation. You should also avoid using jargon, slang, or acronyms that may confuse or alienate some of your workers. Instead, you should use inclusive, respectful, and positive language that acknowledges and appreciates the diversity and value of your workers.

Our commitment to inclusivity defines our approach. We steer clear of assumptions or stereotypes, recognizing the richness of varied perspectives. With language that unites rather than divides, we celebrate the diverse experiences and viewpoints within our culture. Partnering with the company's human resource team is a great step to get alignment across the company. Making sure we build and communicate the same message in support of diverse feedback, respect among colleagues, avoiding confusion in industry or even age related jargon and build overall communication skills for all. We want to prioritize a culture of mutual respect and understanding, encouraging open discussions that appreciate the value of diverse perspectives.

Learn and improve

The sixth and final step to customize your safety communication is to learn and improve from your results. Different generations may have different outcomes and impacts from your safety communication. You should measure and evaluate the effectiveness of your safety communication, and use the data and feedback to identify what works and what doesn't. You should also be open and flexible to change and adapt your safety communication as your workers' needs and preferences evolve over time. For example, you can use surveys, tests, or audits to assess your workers' knowledge, behavior, or performance related to safety. You can also use analytics, metrics, or indicators to track your workers' engagement, satisfaction, or retention with your safety communication.

Evolving with insights, we fine-tune safety communication strategies. We measure impact, eagerly learning from successes and challenges. Adapting to shifting preferences, our commitment to continuous improvement ensures a dynamic and responsive safety dialogue. Implement regular assessments and feedback mechanisms to measure the effectiveness of safety communication among different generations. Analyze data from surveys, engagement metrics, and participation rates to identify successful approaches and areas for improvement. Adjust strategies accordingly and communicate these adaptations transparently.

Here’s what else to consider

Encourage intergenerational knowledge exchange through mentorship programs or lunch-and-learn sessions. Leverage storytelling as a tool to bridge generational gaps, sharing experiences and lessons learned. Foster a culture of continuous learning and adaptation, celebrating successes and embracing challenges as opportunities for growth.