On Words and Business

As we get older, most of us start to question whether we can stay in touch with the younger generation. For those of us in the communications business, the question is significant. If we can’t keep up, can’t figure out how to get the message to different generations, have we outgrown our jobs?

Here’s a discussion on Marketing Profs of this very issue.

The world changes so quickly these days, it seems easy enough to feel out of touch. Then again, maybe everyone always feels like the world is changing very quickly as they get older. No matter the year, no matter what is happening in the world. Perhaps feeling like the world is changing too quickly is how you know you are no longer a kid?

In any case, I think keeping up with what appeals to different generations, and being able to communicate effectively across generations, is more about attitude, about being curious, and about not fearing new things than it is about your actual age. Even if it is a lot of work and it makes me want to take a nap.

What are your thoughts?

Multitasking. It’s the name of the game these days, in work and in leisure. Folks check blackberries or laptops during meetings, or watch t.v. while reading a book. Yet multitasking doesn’t seem to do what it purports to do–let us get more done in less time. There are good arguments to be made for the fact that is really slows us down.

I won’t answer the phone if I’m in the middle of something. I don’t check my email often if I am working on a deadline. I try not to let myself get distracted by the internet when I’m working on something best done uninterrupted. And I’ve been disparaged for all of these things by folks who don’t understand that I like to do one thing at a time.

Perhaps now I’ve been vindicated? The November issue of the Atlantic includes a fabulous essay on multitasking (full access only for subscribers) and how efficient it really isn’t. Just make sure to turn off the t.v. (and blackberry, phone, email alert) when you read it. Oh, and pull the car over and stop.