There are lots of ways to communicate with workers; however, there may be some ways that are more effective in getting your message across in the work place where there are younger people. 

You may want to consider the following points:

• Messaging

All messages should be framed in the right way. Young people need to understand what is expected of them but the messages should be kept short, simple and easy to remember. Make it personal so that they understand the benefits for them and not just the organisation.

• Delivery

Young people who are less used to work may have a shorter attention span, so communications should be punchy and brief. Be as clear and precise as possible with instructions. Visual messages may be more effective. Don’t rely on one form of communication but instead reinforce messages with other forms of communication. Photographs of correct and incorrect procedures can aid understanding. Demonstrate how to perform a task safely, instead of telling them.

• Understanding

Don’t overload messages with technical jargon which young people, new to the job, might struggle to understand. Regularly check that they understand what they are being asked to do (even if they say yes). Some young people may have difficulty reading or writing. They may need to be shown how to perform the same task several times. Be aware of cultural and language barriers. Those without English as a first language may require additional instruction so double check their understanding. If you communicate in your mother tongue, be sure that all the vocabulary words are used correctly and there is no place for confusion.

• Create opportunities for communication

Methods such as discussion groups, online forums, toolbox talks, mentoring schemes, suggestion schemes and other tools can be useful for raising awareness.

• Provide feedback

Give positive and constructive feedback, praise and encouragement. Ensure that you are always approachable and receptive.

• Style

Young people communicate with each other in different ways, and are likely to be more open and responsive to certain types of communication. Social networking, electronic and mobile communications such as email and text are more prevalent among younger people. Where appropriate these platforms may be effective means of communicating safety messages.

Key principles in safety critical communications:

• Identify who needs to communicate, and what their communication needs are

• Companies should consider the medium (e.g. face-to-face, procedure, radio) and method (e.g. written, verbal)

• Consider timings of key communications e.g. draw attention to hazards before people are required to carry out tasks

• Language should be appropriate to the workforce (consider literacy, first language) and use appropriate terminology

• If it is really important to get a message across, consider using two or more methods/media of communication e.g. written back up to a verbal communication

Of course, there are other ways to effectively communicate with young people. When involving young people, it’s good to think about your verbal and non-verbal communication with them. It’s important to be yourself - young people are good at spotting fakes - but always keep things respectful and appropriate.

Language

Be yourself – speak as you normally would to anyone else. Though remember to keep your language appropriate and respectful. Swearing around young people is usually not appropriate. Swearing at them is never acceptable – and it’s likely to be met with a similar response!

It’s best to use simple language, but don’t think you have to ‘dumb down' your vocabulary for young people. Avoid using workplace jargon or acronyms, slang that you think young people want to hear, or words you’ve overheard young people using. And don’t try and copy young people’s accents or pronunciation – it can be pretty offensive.

Think about how the words you use might affect someone of a different background, being sensitive to race, disability, gender, or sexuality. Even if you don’t consider a term offensive, it’s possible that some young people might. Even words that are often used by youth, education or community professionals – like ‘vulnerable’ or ‘at-risk’ – can be viewed negatively by young people (would you like to be described like that?).

Think about the tone of your voice too. Make sure you're speaking at a level where everyone can hear you. Using humor is a great way to build trust and rapport.

Body language

Keep your body language open and non-threatening. For example, keep your arms unfolded and your legs uncrossed. Avoid pointing or jabbing your finger. Smile and look around at the young people you’re talking with. Crouch down or sit so you’re on the same level, not standing over them. If sitting, lean forward to show you’re interested. Though be careful not to get too close – everyone likes some personal space!

When young people are talking, show you’re paying attention by looking at them, nodding, repeating their points back or asking questions. When you’re talking, try and engage everyone in the conversation, not just the most vocal young people. Be aware that young people from some cultural backgrounds may regard eye contact as rude, or be silent as a mark of respect. It takes time to build trust – some young people may not want to may not want to talk or share their story until they’ve met you a few times.

Be open but maintain boundaries

Being open about your own life and experiences shows young people you trust them and see them as equals. But being too open – sharing too much about yourself – can be inappropriate. It’s best to keep proper boundaries at all times – keep some parts of your personal life off-limits. Especially anything that involves alcohol, sex or drugs. 

Some young people might try and pry to test the boundaries. Smiling and telling them that their question is personal, or the topic is private, is usually enough to show they have overstepped the mark. You can also change the subject or direct the question back to them. For example, if a young person asks you something that makes you feel uncomfortable, you might reply (in a good-humored way), “Why does that interest you? Do you think it’s important when people lose their virginity?"

Writing for a youth audience

• If you’re creating a flyer, poster, report, social media post or other text aimed at young people, here are a few more tips that are good to stick to:
• Know your audience – there’s a big difference in writing for young people in their early teens and those in their twenties. Ask a young person for help in making it relatable to the group you’re targeting.
• Keep the language clear and simple, so it can be understood by everyone – including young people who don’t speak English as their first language. Avoid jargon and acronyms.
• Keep your message brief and get straight to the point – use dot points or short sentences. Try and use as few words as possible. Keep editing until you can edit no more!

References:

Kellett, M. (2011). Engaging with Children and Young People. Centre for Children and Young People Background Briefing Series no.3., Lismore: Centre for Children and Young People, Southern Cross University.

Shanahan P., Elliott D. (2009). Effective Communication with Young People, Report for Office for Youth, DEEWR E&S, Research Pty Ltd