Through communication and listening.
Generational expectations matter because each generation has different experiences, frustrations, challenges, and hopes. These are also shaped by technological advances and the societal values inherent to that generation.
The first thing is to make the different generations aware of these differences, both the older generations, who have historically held a higher position in society, and the younger ones. Between baby boomers, generations X and Y, and millennials, the motivations are not the same. So what motivates me will be different for a millennial.
The second is to exchange ideas to understand and work together across these generations. It is harder for someone to have empathy if they do not understand the problem someone else faces when there are no similar references/situations from their own era.
So, lunches or brown bag sessions on a subject: nothing beats them for getting to know one another.
Simon Sinek made a very good video explaining this principle. I strongly recommend it:
Finally, for those who have children, talk to them! They will be an excellent source of information.
