The Solution
Both parties, in order to work together more effectively, need to understand the difference between personal parity and professional parity. In a highly productive, growth-oriented organization, there is complete personal parity. That is, regardless of functional role or responsibility, all employees have equal value as people. Of equal importance, in these environments there is absolutely no professional parity, meaning that there is no illusion (or delusion) about who is more important to the success and growth of the company. People who take more risks and create greater opportunities for expansion are of greater value, should get paid more, and are deserving of more privileges and perks. All parties need to have this articulated and strongly supported by the organization’s leadership.

In addition, supervisors desperately need training in listening skills and need to understand the subtleties of a seemingly pedestrian behavior. Simply training in the
four levels of listening – (1) “Hearing the words,” (2) “Hearing the words and partial feelings,” (3) “Hearing words, accepting feelings,” (4) “Hearing words, accepting feelings, making plans to deal with issues,” – would go a long way to creating better communication.

From the worker’s perspective, an explanation of the difference between “structure” and “control,” could produce amazing results. “Structure” is simply a patterned, predictable vehicle for getting predetermined results. Without it, nothing productive happens. “Control” is a device for dictating how one feels about choices they make and behaviors they exhibit. “Structure” invites cooperation and collaboration. “Control” creates power struggles and the need for retribution.

The opportunities for closing the gap between supervisors and younger workers are readily available and well within the reach of any organization. What it takes to implement them is a commitment, on the part of HR professionals and other leaders, to create and sustain a learning culture in their workplace.

With a little effort from all parties, the result can be increased understanding and productivity.