Communicating effectively with Zoomers

Age-old principles rooted in mindfulness take on new importance.

- By Sorayuth Vathanavisuth

The recent move by Australia to ban social media for people aged below 16 has focused attention on the critical role communication plays in our daily lives.

The ban could have a significant impact on the youngest members of Generation Z, the first true “digital natives” who have grown up with the internet, smartphones and social media as standard.

Older members of Gen Z, meanwhile, have moved into adulthood and are starting to reshape the social environment and the corporate landscape. Communication is a big part of that change.

It can be said that there is not a big difference between baby boomers and Gen X, and even Gen Y and boomers can find some points in common. But with Gen Z — those 28 years old and below — now making their presence felt, we are experiencing a totally different ball game.

The key issue is how to connect effectively with Gen Z and also how to communicate across generations. Since we are all humans who must regularly interact with each other, there are right approaches to productively engage, as discussed below.

Right issue: Addressing the right issues and topics is important in creating fruitful conversation. In a workplace setting, this allows Gen Z and others to focus on the necessary subjects that relate to their responsibilities and duties. Words are important — statements should be factual, true and beneficial. Everyone, old and young, can benefit from being well prepared by taking time to think deeply beforehand about what they want to say and achieve in a conversation.