Preliminary Development of a Model of Inter-generational Communication Competence: Identifying Key Components From Multicultural Perspectives

• In Event: So Far, So Good, Part 1: Organizational Communication Research Escalator

Abstract

This pilot study is aimed to identify key components of inter-generational communication competence in organizations in Thailand, as an important AEC hub, from multicultural perspectives by examining (1) work-related values of Gen-B, Gen-X and Gen-Y employees, (2) perceptions of Gen-B, Gen-X and Gen-Y employees towards employees in different generations, (3) communication-related behaviors and outcomes of inter-generational communication, and (4) communication expectations of Gen-B, Gen-X and Gen-Y employees when having to communicate with other generational cohorts in organizations. Using the Organizational Socialization and Assimilation Theory as the main theoretical framework in this study, qualitative method was employed at the preliminary stage. Data was collected by conducting documentary study, gathering data from 3 major categories of related sources/papers in Western, ASEAN (mainly Chinese, Muslim) and Thai cultures, published between 2007 and 2013: news/articles in newspaper/magazines, books, and empirical studies.

Authors

• Papassara Chaiwong, Chulalongkorn University

• Roong Sriussadaporn, Chulalongkorn U