Introduction

Managers who possess leadership skills create self-motivated employees. Similarly, they build an encouraging and productive environment where employees work with minimal supervision. In today’s organizations, it is not shocking to see the four generations, namely traditionalists, baby boomers, generation X and generation Y working together. The distinctive natures of the four generations provide opportunity, different experiences, and strengths into the workplace. However, it is also prudent to note that such an atmosphere can form potential conflict and contradictory views. Therefore, a good manager must know how to manage any arising conflicts and harnessing every opportunity to handle the assets presented by each generation.

How Does Your Organization Develop and Hone Leadership Skills?

My organization develops and hones leadership skills through proper organizational communication strategies. Working with a diverse workforce requires a leader who can communicate well through word of mouth and in writing. Likewise, different generations are comfortable with varying levels of technology (HRM, 2011). For instance, the traditionalists may be okay with simple emails or oral communication. Conversely, the millennials and generation X feel more comfortable with social media. Ephesians 4:29 states that, “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what helps build others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those that listen” (The Bible). Based on this excerpt, the Lord expects to build each other up through words of affirmation. Consequently, it is vital for leaders to practice effective communication skills that are fair and honest.

Moreover, my organization practices succession planning to ensure the continuity of the firm. Succession planning involves identifying talent and expertise within the company for competitive advantage (HRM, 2011). As such, leaders who are conscious of the internal talent pool create a cultivating and sustaining corporate culture. Therefore, a good leader must have a basic understanding of different attitudes and working values for each generation.

Another important strategy in my organization is mentoring. Mentoring guarantees the passage of significant knowledge from one age group to the next. By using proper mentoring programs, a retiring workforce can transfer vital information to the younger staff (HRM, 2011). For instance, once leaders identify individual goals and developmental needs for the younger generation, they can pair them with older age groups. Therefore, this ensures proper capture of the organization’s knowledge. Palms 145: 4 states “One generation will commend your works to another, they will tell of your mighty acts.” Consequently, the older generation should mentor others in organizations as they prepare for retirement.

What Happens To People That Are Promoted Or Hired In As A Manager/Leader Who Don’t’ Do Well Handling Their Staff?

The detriments of lousy management have a cascade effect on any organization. Managers who do not know how to handle employees run the risk of lost productivity in a firm. However, it is worth noting that holding a new position is challenging. Besides, new leaders grapple with added responsibilities and the management of a diverse workforce. Therefore, it is prudent to give people in new positions time to adjust to the rules and environment. A probation period for such staff is also essential to make sure that poor management skills do not have a long-term effect on employees. The Bible says, “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but many advisers make victory true” (Bible, Proverbs 11: 14). Hence, promoted leaders must adapt to the new environment and learn how to work well with other employees.

Conclusion

Good leaders must work to maximize and leverage the talent of each generation. Optimizing the capacity of each person ensures that the organization preserves vital tradition and information. Additionally, every firm must hone and develop leadership skills through mentoring, succession planning, and organizational communication. The Bible also emphasizes on the importance of good governance in any situation.

References

Society for Human Resource Management (2011). Human Resources in Research and Practice, Alexandria, VA: SHRM. ISBN: 978-1-58644-207-1.

The Holy Bible: New International Version