Last weeks blog topic, “No Loyalty In The Workplace – Really”, created some interesting conversations. In it, I suggested that…
I outlined 4 “institutions” that Gen X and Boomer leaders have typically assumed to be foundational. I suggest that these 4 are not viewed similarly by the millennials, and for understandable reasons. If you missed this blog, I encourage to take a moment, reflect on the 4 “institutions” and the application questions at the end of the blog.
As a reminder, I am not offering the following as merely theory by me. I have
- had the privilege of raising 4 millennials (all now married to millennials),
- been employing awesome millennials
- continued mentoring tremendous millennials
- along with my wife Cathy, led a group of 30 – 40 millennials for over 3 years for our local church community…
I believe, and have experienced, it to be totally possible for us to lead millennials well in our businesses, our families, communities and churches.
Here are 2 very specific actions you can begin to work on that, over time, will make a significant difference. You will be glad you did, as will the millennials in your life.
Take a look at the data from organizations like Gallup, and you will see that my comments are just a little bit common.
These 2 actions may sound “simple” at first glance. They can be difficult to make happen, especially while feeling the weight of leadership and many daily pressures. To lead yourself well and put these 2 actions into practice will require deep character on your part.
Here are the 2 actions millennials need from you their leader…
Action # 1: Take Personal Interest In Them – “The Great Commandment”
- They need to know that they are more than a number, a line item in a budget. Many of them experienced their mom or dad being “downsized” after many years of service, for a variety of reasons.
- They need to know that you are genuine – sincere! Within context and done well, given time and tasks at hand…. are you engaging them in meaningful, purposeful conversations?
Action # 2: They Need To Grow – “The Great Commission”
- Their desire to learn and grow, although sometimes not always for the best of reasons, is at the heart of every human – including you and me. This desire to learn and grow is to be affirmed and cultivated.
And yes, “right-sized” in the right way, at the right time. The objective to be CEO of a 400 person, national organization, within 3 years…. as a fresh-out-of-school, new-hire with virtually 0 experience, is just a wee bit unrealistic (true story).
- They may be aware of areas they want or need to grow, in order to be “successful”. For example, a skill like languages, programming, a trade, etc. etc. More often, they are likely unaware of other growth areas essential for them to be successful – namely character.
As Christ-following leaders, we have a profound privilege and opportunity to build into the lives of the future leaders of our businesses, families and communities. We are called to participate fully, as Christ following leaders, in the work that God is doing in us and around us. I suggest that you and I cannot consider these 2 actions and do so separate from the 2 Great Mandates given to us by Jesus.
I firmly believe that our response to the millennial question cannot be separated from Christ’s mandate to “love”, as He has loved us, and to “make disciples”. How about you?
A Deliberate Application:
- Read and reflect on Matt 22:36-40 and Matt 28:18-20.
- Do you agree or disagree with the connection of the 2 actions with the mandates from Christ? Why or why not?
- What is your sense of what God is asking of you in your leadership? Are there areas of character growth you need to attend to as look to lead others?
- Who will you share this with?
