Many factors affect 21st century workplace communication, including technological advances, the increase of remote/hybrid work options, as well as an increasingly multiethnic and multigenerational workforce. In this module, we’ll explore each of these communication change drivers and focus our discussion on how changing demographics affect workplace communication. In our knowledge check, we will differentiate between the five working generations and select the communication benefits of different work environments.

Landing your message with clarity and impact is a hallmark of effective communication. When we tailor our messages to accommodate others' styles, to meet others where they reside, it creates more effective communication that doesn't require clarification. Flexing your style also supports our ability to collaborate. In this module, we will use our discussion to implement a flexing communication strategy to better communicate with one’s workplace team. In our knowledge check, we will recognize the benefits of flexing communication and recall strategies to improve communication.

The A.B.I.D.E. model was created to support effective communication and as a reminder of the elements needed for clear, flexible communication and collaboration in the 21st century. The five behaviors overviewed in this module will provide ongoing support and guidance in your workplace communication. In this module's discussion, we will consider which A.B.I.D.E. element could improve communication on your current team. In our final knowledge check, we will name each element of A.B.I.D.E. and articulate how the A.B.I.D.E. model can improve communication.