No Blue Hat?
Summary
- I tried to connect with my team by using slang, but I got it wrong.
- I said "no blue hat" instead of "no cap," not realizing the correct term.
- My team, who are mostly Gen Z, laughed at me because I used the wrong phrase.
- This shows the importance of understanding and correctly using current jargon to effectively communicate with younger generations.
Video
How To Take Action
I would suggest implementing a few key strategies to improve communication within your team and connect better with younger generations. These can be done quickly and at little to no cost.
First, learn the language. Spend some time understanding the current slang and jargon used by younger team members. A good way of doing this is by simply listening more during conversations or following social media trends. Don't force it, but be aware of it. Knowing the correct terms can help you communicate more effectively and avoid misunderstandings.
Next, embrace humility. Don’t be afraid to laugh at your own mistakes. When I said "no blue hat" instead of "no cap," my team laughed, and it lightened the mood. Admitting when you’ve made an error shows your team that you’re human and approachable. It builds trust and relatability.
Also, ask for feedback. Encourage your team to correct you when you make mistakes. This not only helps you learn but also shows that you value their input. It creates an open environment where everyone feels comfortable correcting each other for the sake of better communication and teamwork.
Lastly, make it a habit to stay current. Allocate a small amount of time each week to catch up on what's trending. You could watch a popular YouTube video, read a short article, or follow a social media account that focuses on trends. This helps ensure you’re always in the loop and can connect with your team on current topics.
By implementing these strategies, you'll find it easier to relate to and communicate with the younger members of your team, fostering a more cohesive and productive work environment.
Full Transcript
no blue hat so I said that once so I was with the team and I was trying to be hip and I was like yeah no blue hat I'm in with the kids and they were like huh I was like no blue hat and they were like you mean no cap cuz I had only seen the comments and i' never heard anyone say it and people always said no and then the blue hat and so I said no blue hat and all my geny teammates made fun of me bro
