Let’s Work Together

The business landscape is drastically different than it was 15 years ago. At Two Rivers, we know our clients are diverse in age and we know your employees are, too. Here are some tips to improve working relationships between generations and to understand their unique talents!

1. Utilize their strengths. The skills a young person brings to the table (technological and otherwise) are valuable. Combining that technological ability with an older person’s experience, wisdom, and management prowess makes an even stronger and more collaborative relationship.

2. Make them talk. Intergenerational relationships are unique and reciprocal. By encouraging conversation with one another they can both gain so much. “For young people, having an older friend listen closely helps them feel heard and respected. For older people, having younger friends can help them better connect to the broader culture,” said Dr. Jon Nussbaum, a communication professor at Penn State.

3. Focus on the job. Instead of spending time dissecting the weaknesses and differences among generations, encourage collaboration in order to complete the job. After all, at the end of the day that is the goal!

Just like other businesses, at Two Rivers Bank & Trust, our customers span generations and we love to work with them all.

Aaron Cling, a Two Rivers Ag Lending Officer, said it’s important to build rapport with your customers even if there is an age difference.

“I think it’s important not to put up a façade,” he explained. “I try to answer any questions my customers have and if I don’t know the answer, I admit that and find the information for them.”

Cling has many working relationships with lending customers of all generations and believes it’s great when everyone works together.

“It’s so neat to see a 70-year-old father and 50-year-old son come in together to transition the financial documents of their farm from one generation to the next. We get to know our customers of all ages and we’re really happy we get to work with all of them.”

Two Rivers cares about your business. Check out our website to learn more about our business services that can help you help your employees and customers, no matter their age.