Stop Tiptoeing, Start Translating
→ Building bridges across cultural and generational gaps through micro-conversations
There’s a misconception that talking about differences at work will make things more tense. So leaders hesitate. They don’t want to offend. But silence doesn’t build inclusion—dialogue does. And the key isn’t to walk on eggshells; it’s to build a bridge.
Translating across cultures and generations means acknowledging difference, not pretending it doesn’t exist. It means asking open questions like, “How does your background shape the way you approach this?” and being willing to offer your own perspective in return. That kind of transparency turns potential friction into meaningful learning.
You don’t need a PhD in cultural anthropology to do this well. What you do need is humility and curiosity. You need to be willing to say, "I'm not sure what this means to you—can we talk about it?" That kind of openness signals respect and builds trust fast.
More importantly, this approach makes everyone feel responsible for co-creating culture, not just "fitting in." That’s how you move from surface-level inclusion to something deeper and more sustainable.
Real move: Start your next cross-functional or cross-cultural conversation with, “Let’s assume we’re seeing this differently—what do you think I might be missing?”
Generational divides and cultural disconnects aren’t obstacles—they’re your edge.
If you know how to lead across them, you become the person who builds bridges others can’t.
👉 Join the SuperSession: Crossing Borders — Navigating Generational & Cultural Differences.
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