Leading Through the Generation Gap

It intrigues me that although the oldest of Generation Y are well into their thirties, many leaders are still a bit perplexed as to how they should lead and influence this group. About half of our employees within the four entities I lead at iPG probably fall within the Gen Y range, so today I thought I’d share a few things I’ve learned about working alongside and leading this group.

First, they are hungry! The Generation Y teammates that I’ve been around want to be challenged. They like to run and to know that their ideas are being heard. They want to be given the freedom to think – not just be told what to do. This past year we hosted an emerging leader development program for our up-and-coming young leaders, and our participants loved learning and debating about leadership. This group is eager to learn, so be intentional about creating opportunities that feed them. (more…)