There's a major shift happening across America's Corporations, and no, I'm not referring to our Political climate, though um, WOAH! 😳 I'm talking about the shift in management. The rise of Gen X and Millennial managers is legit and their success (in my opinion) is worth exploring. As professionals navigating family, career and life in general, understanding what drives Gen X and Millenial managers may prove to be the key to sustainable success and employee tenure. What other generations claim is coddling or lacksadaisy, may actually be the best way forward.
Why Gen X and Millennials are the New Top Dogs
Gen X and Millennials have broken the mold in many ways. Latch-key kids are a thing of the past for most = we were the mold and said, aht aht 🤨 no more of those shenanigans, so we broke it. We've put a greater emphasis on work-life balance and it shows in our management style. Oh yeah, if you couldn't tell, I fall into this category 😜. I actually consider myself part of that often forgotten micro-generation called the Xillennial, fitted nicely between the two, giving me the best of both worlds a la Hannah Montana. In any case, we've started to shift the traditional concepts of leadership with our ways of thinking and leading. Defined by our innovative approaches, adaptability, and tech-savvy acumen, we are revolutionizing the professional landscape.
Instilling stability, strategic thinking, digital proficiency, and collaborative spirit, we are paving the way for a harmonious synergy that drives growth, fosters innovation, and navigates through the challenges of the digital age with finesse.
Advice from a random Xillennial:
I'm not the expert on this stuff, but being part of the workforce for over 20 years, I've seen some shhtuff and have had a fair share of managers, so Imay know a thing or two that could help you. Here are some chicki nuggies of advice from this side of the generation tracks.
1. Embrace Change and Innovation:
Gen X and Millennial managers thrive in environments characterized by change and innovation. We are more open to understanding the importance of adapting to evolving trends, technologies, and market dynamics. Embracing change as a catalyst for growth and innovation rather than a hindrance, could keep you on the path to success, staying in touch with the needs, hopes and goals of the newer generation of employees. Stay curious, seek new information, and be ready to unlearn habits that were developed for and around a different generation of worker. No offense, but those people are getting ready to retire sooner than you think so think about where the value add lies in keeping old habits.
2. Champion Diversity and Inclusion:
We prioritize diversity and inclusion in their leadership approach. This is a touchy subject but reality is, Gen X and Millennials are kind of the DEI experts out in these streets. We recognize the value of diverse perspectives, foster an inclusive work culture, and champion equality within your teams. We are likely the OG generation of diversity and are among the parents to the most racially diverse generation to date. A specific group of people refuse to acknowledge or accept that, and unfortunately, many business leaders subscribe to their skewed thought process. STOP 🛑! Help us, help you!
3. Don't be so serious:
We're co-workers maybe friends NOT babysitters. One of the biggest differences seen across the younger generation of management is our laid-back approach to managing others. We don't approach team members as baby chicks, they don't need to check in for every minute of their day. Why?! Many of us have been micromanaged to the point of rebellion. So we refuse to do the same thing to the next group.
Fun fact- this actually makes people WANT to work harder and more for us! 🤯 They feel trusted, respected and valued so they get their work done as needed and move on. We shouldn't be trying to account for every second of every minute of every worker's day, because ultimately you're hiring the person that can do the job best. This is especialy true if you don't want to have to do the job yourself. So our generation figured this out, and choose to surround ourselves with people that know how to do their work, and work to get it done with out us watching over their shoulder all day. Check in to say Hi 👋, let employees come to you with an issue, instead of making an issue that requires your involvement. This is probably the biggest reason Gen X and Millennial managers and their teams do so well. #ijs
The Crystal Ball: Gen X and Millennial Managers Steering the Course 🔮
As Gen X and Millennials continue their paths as managers, our collective impact is shaking things up and we're reshaping cultures, strategies, and visions.
We're focused on presenting unique insights, embracing change, and charting a new path towards collective excellence in leadership. Taking us away from the secret meetings and hush-hush strategies to open-door policies and honest feedback for improvement. This isn't and should never have been a top-down strategy. Any team is only as great as their lowest performer so excellence needs to start at the foundation. This generation knows that. We were raised on the basis of 'treat others how you want to be treated', and 'be as kind to the maintenance worker as you would be to the CEO'. Oh, and even one that I feel we've tossed out the window finally- 'do as I say, not as I do'. 😎 Simply put, we look at this leadership gig differently and realize the value isn't in repeating the same old, often wornout formula, we've got to change the game and be the leaders we wished we had. Ultimately, that's what's leading to our success, as individuals and as part of organizations around the world.
Happy leading, fellow professionals, may the spirit of Gen X and Millennial leadership guide your growth and success! 🚀🌟
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