The simple notion of phoning in sick is as likely to be replaced by a text message or even a Facebook post these days, reinforcing how communication can be at the heart of a generational divide in the workplace.

Problems in how Gen Y workers and their Gen X or baby boomer bosses communicate will be at the heart of a seminar in Canberra on Tuesday hosted by the Australian Business Apprenticeships Centre.

The centre’s general manager, Andrew Williams, said each generation had a different set of workplace protocols that could be interpreted differently and lead to friction.

“A simple example might be a young worker is sick and can’t work. Historically, it’s expected the employee would ring the boss and say ‘I can’t come in’,” Mr Williams said. “What happens when that worker, in all honesty and all innocence sends the boss a text message saying ‘I’m sick and can’t come in’ or puts it on Facebook?”

The challenge for bosses managing Gen Y workers can also come down tothe feedback they provide on performance, psychologist and ABAC consultant Danielle Buckley said.

She said it was essential for bosses to give Gen Yers an opportunity totalk about their performance and give them feedback.

“We need to get employers to start taking that coaching role in their communication rather than just telling and doing,” Mrs Buckley said.

For Aaron Hazell, a second-year apprentice and workshop manager at Touchstone Joinery, communication is a two-way street.

“Communication with their employers [is important] so everyone knows where they stand and everyone is working to the same goal,” Mr Hazell said. “We try to focus on the culture, teamwork and trying to build a strong team.”

The ABAC seminar covering how to get the most out of the employees through communication will be held at the Hyatt Hotel Canberra starting at 4.30pm.