Millennials and Face-to-Face Communications

Baby Boomers like face-to-face communication whereas Millennials prefer the cell phone or social media. Or do they?

The International Association of Business Communications released a report recently which stated, among other things, that while Millennials frequently use electronic communication in various forms including the telephone, text messaging and social media, they are equally comfortable with face-to-face communications, the preferred method for Baby Boomers. Consulting firm KHR Solutions conducted a survey and found that 56% of participants preferred face-to-face communications with their boss.

Robert J. Holland, in his article in the ragan.com blog, argued that a multi-communication strategy approach is needed by leaders in organizations to be successful in communicating with all generations.

Certainly the reason for the communication should match the method of delivery. All too often employees report with frustration and boredom when executives hold meetings to communicate face-to-face strictly for the purpose of transmitting information or progress reports that affect a minority of attendees.

Face-to-face meeting communications should be reserved for important policy announcements, organization wide intiatives, or discussion that requires participation and discussion. Otherwise, an increasing number of employees--particularly the younger ones--would prefer an electronic communication and experience less frustration about "wasting time."