Generation gaps are nothing new. At one time or another, we've all been scolded with the phrase: "when I was your age...." Some aboriginal caveman no doubt muttered them when his offspring invented the wheel and expected Fridays off to go riding. Even "experience stories," like walking twelve miles to school through ten feet of snow somehow lack credibility.

There have always been generational differences. So why are today's so defined?

More than half of our work force consists of "Post-War Baby-Boomers" (born between 1948 and 1964) and "Generation Xers" (1965 - 1975). And their upbringing's have been very different.

Baby boomers experienced job shortages, gas shortages and spiraling inflation. For the first time in many families, it took two incomes to make ends meet. Work meant security, which enhanced job loyalty. The corporate ladder offered opportunity. Pension plans and Social Security made eventual retirement a reality.

So along comes the technology age and, with it, Generation X. Modern-day 'latch-key kids' who are self-reliant, thrive on technology and know that pension funds are disappearing like dinosaurs. Jobs have become more plentiful, but offered less long-term security. They questione the need for corporate loyalty, and put more focus on self-sufficiency.

The real winners, of cource, will be those who can see how much we all have in common.

There is powerful opportunity for people willing to take on the communication challenge. Several recent employer surveys have listed "communication skills" near or at the top of their job applicant qualifications list.

Become an 'expert communicator' and you'll increase your value at work...and in the job market. Start by asking yourself: "What real value do I bring to my job?," "How can I use it to help both me and my employer be better at what we do," and "how can I communicate more effectively?"

Start building an open dialogue with co-workers, managers or employees. Get them talking about what's important to them....and what gives them the most headaches. Don't dismiss their answers as "out of touch with the real world." Listen attentively and respect their views. You'll often find the differences are slimmer than you thought.

And, company loyalty isn't dead, even amoung Generation X. In fact, it's still very much the ticket to success if both employer and employee communicate their wants, needs and expectations.

Remember that keeping an open mind to differences and strengthening your personal communication skills are the keys to closing the generation gap at work.

TEN TIPS for cross generational communication

1. Observe Your Own Communication Style - Are you reserved, conversational or outspoken
2. Listen for Value in "Experience Stories" - Avoid dismissing them as being out-of-date
3. Practice Listening - Ask questions to clarify intent
4. Respect Alternative Viewpoints - Even when you disagree
5. Talk to Your Employer - Understand their concerns and goals
6. Be Technology-Minded - And open-minded to more changes
7. Let Managers Get To Know You - It enhances workplace rapport
8. Avoid Judging a Generation on a few
9. Manager People, Not Age Groups - Focus on personal strengths of employees
10. Communicate Communicate Communicate - Don't stop talking and don't stop listening