Generation Gap Challenge

Hello, I'm Ta (Pithakthakul Kaewchai), a UX/UI Designer at Tri Petch IT Solutions Co., Ltd, a subsidiary of Tri Petch Group. I'm responsible for designing the Truck2Hand website, Thailand's largest online platform for buying and selling trucks and second-hand goods.

Before joining this company, I worked at a small start-up filled with colleagues of a similar age and mindset, all moving in the same direction. Although our work processes weren't very structured, we were fast, agile, not complicated, and our communication was straightforward and casual. Being a small company, we knew and were close to almost everyone.

This contrasts sharply with my current workplace, a large corporation with diverse people of all ages, from energetic new graduates to those nearing retirement. Here, I truly experienced the "generation gap," forcing me to adapt, change my mindset, adjust my work approach, and navigate different work expectations. This marked the beginning of my challenge.

My work requires me to communicate with various departments to gather requirements, identify problems, and develop feasible design solutions. In my first assignment, creating a Customer Journey Map to guide future feature development, I had to consult with senior members of the Business department to understand customer behavior and needs. There were times I had to ask repeated questions due to my unfamiliarity with the industry's terms, but my colleagues were always willing to help. I learned to prepare specific questions to gather detailed information to make a summary.

Furthermore, the work processes here are more complex than in a start-up. Initially, I questioned my seniors “Why is it so complicated?” as it sometimes caused delays. However, I understood that as a large organization, careful consideration and following the process are required. I could understand and adapt myself better, but my persistent nature led me to propose new work ideas, like brainstorming sessions for open idea exchange. These sessions helped me understand the diverse perspectives and mindsets of my colleagues in different generations.

Idea proposals are common here, but they must align with business goals and be practically feasible. Therefore, when proposing ideas, we must look at data or analyze in many dimensions. In the beginning, my ideas were based on my own common sense, which was sometimes biased. However, I consistently received guidance, like, "Have you considered this angle? What are the pros and cons?" I learned that thoroughness and accuracy were as important as speed. This helped me identify and improve my weaknesses.

I learned that "generation gap is not a problem but an opportunity." Issues arise from misunderstanding each other's mindsets, and we must accept that we can't change people.

As a newcomer, understanding and learning were crucial. I started listening more, understanding different generations' perspectives, concerns, and decision-making factors.

Instead of trying to change others, I focused on "exchange" rather than "change" gradually adapting my approach to align with their expectations. Instead of proposing whole changes, I suggested pilot tests and provided comprehensive data for them to see the pros and cons. The generation gap gradually narrowed, and I gained the trust of colleagues across all ages. I also helped the team appreciate new ideas while respecting existing experiences and processes. This was an important lesson in my professional growth.

For those facing similar challenges, remember, "differences are not obstacles but the opportunities for learning and growth." Changes in a big organization is difficult, but patience is key. As changes do not happen overnight, it will gradually build up when there is understanding and trust. Do not rush too much because you might miss valuable opportunities and experiences.

Last but not least, "Generation Gap in Workplace isn't a competition to decide who is right or who is wrong, but a journey of mutual learning and growth." By being open-minded and understanding each other, we unlock new opportunities for personal and team development.

By Pithakthakul Kaewchai