She Strengthens

Leading Across Generations: A Young Executive’s Journey

As a natural-born leader, I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can guide and inspire teams. From childhood playgrounds to corporate boardrooms, I’ve sought out opportunities to make a meaningful impact. Recently, I took a significant leap forward in my career, becoming an executive at just 25 years old. Now, I’m surrounded by seasoned professionals in their 40s, 50s, and 60s, each with a wealth of experience and knowledge.

Navigating Uncharted Territory

While I expected to face challenges in leading a team of older, more experienced colleagues, I soon discovered that managing Gen Xers and Baby Boomers was a steep learning curve. It’s been a trial by fire, but one that has taught me valuable lessons about effective leadership.

Key Strategies for Success

Through my experiences, I’ve identified four essential strategies for leading a multi-generational team:

Value Your Colleagues

As a young outsider in a new industry, I quickly realized the importance of leveraging my colleagues’ expertise and institutional knowledge. By listening to their insights and valuing their contributions, I’ve built strong relationships and gained a deeper understanding of the business.

Demand Respect, Not Approval

As a leader, it’s essential to establish credibility and authority. Rather than seeking approval, I focus on earning respect from my team members. By doing so, I’ve built trust and confidence in my decision-making abilities.

Adapt Your Communication Style

Effective communication is crucial in any team. I’ve learned to adapt my style to meet the needs of my colleagues, taking into account their individual preferences and generational differences. By doing so, I ensure that my message is understood and respected.

Embrace the Generation Gap

Rather than ignoring the generation gap, I’ve chosen to acknowledge and embrace it. By understanding my colleagues’ life stages, priorities, and responsibilities, I can better manage their workload and appeal to their needs. This empathetic approach has fostered a culture of trust and respect within our team.

Balancing Strength and Empathy

As a young leader, it’s essential to strike a balance between assertiveness and empathy. By combining confidence and clarity with a genuine interest in my team members’ lives, I’ve created a positive and productive work environment. And, I’ve discovered my own personal mantra: being a boss-ass bitch is not just about authority, but about earning respect and leading with heart.