We are almost halfway through 2023, and young leadership has changed and adapted to reflect the times. New technologies, shifting workplace relationships, and evolving social values can all affect the future of youth leadership in positive and negative ways. As the pilot of their jets, young leaders must adapt to the ebb and flow of circumstances to reach their destination.
By 2025, millennials and members of Generation Z will account for 75% of the world's working population, according to an estimate by accounting firm Deloitte. It means that the future of the economy and the workforce will be heavily influenced by the leadership of today's young people.
On the other hand, 63% of Generation Z members want to be managers in the next decade, according to a LinkedIn survey. It underlines the need for successful youth leadership programs to equip young people with the information and skills they need to become influential leaders.
But young leaders in 2023 are facing particular obstacles. The youth are pressured by technology and society to meet increasingly complex issues due to the world's continual evolution and adaptability to new conditions. These challenges include:
1. The ever-evolving nature of the modern workplace. The ability to embrace change has always been a sign of strong leadership, but it has been even more critical this year. The capacity to quickly shift gears and adapt to new circumstances in the workplace is a crucial skill for today's aspiring young leaders. Thus, the secret is keeping an eye on the prize while being agile enough to dodge obstacles.
2. Issues with diversity, equity, and inclusion. It is not simply the right thing to do morally to work toward a more diverse and inclusive leadership team, but also good for business. However, it can feel like climbing Mount Everest to overcome the obstacles to racial and ethnic diversity in leadership. It is like forging a trail through uncharted territory; it takes guts, determination, and a love of adventure. Like a well-traveled path, a diversified leadership team can bring new insights and ideas that fuel innovation and progress.
3. Deficit in experience. Envision yourself boarding a ship amid an unknown ocean. The waves may be significant, and the path winding, but you will get better at steering the boat with each one. It is akin to the difficulty experienced by young leaders of 2023, wherein they may find it challenging to gain respect and credibility and win the support of their more seasoned colleagues.
4. Social pressure to fit in with the norm. Young leaders are also dealing with the pressure to meet the standards set by those around them. There is a risk that tomorrow's leaders will be pressured to follow in the footsteps of their elders. For people who are driven to effect positive change, this can be a particularly trying experience. However, this obstacle can be overcome by fearless young leaders who stand up for their beliefs, even if it goes against conventional wisdom.
5. COVID-19 pandemic. Despite already in front of the post-pandemic setting, young leaders need help with additional stumbling blocks, such as working remotely, leading virtual teams, and keeping morale high in an increasingly isolated environment. It calls for improved flexibility, toughness, and the capacity for productive interaction and cooperation.
Despite these obstacles, 2023 presents several opportunities for young leaders to make an impact. By their age and inherent curiosity, enthusiasm, and drive, young leaders have an excellent opportunity to effect positive change in their communities and the world at large. Some of these are:
1. Introducing novel viewpoints and suggestions. The youth's potential to offer new viewpoints and creative solutions is like a gust of cool air in a stuffy room. Young leaders have an advantage since they are more likely to have a new perspective on their generation's issues. Because of their creative mindset, they can effectively address complex problems using original approaches. Organizations can access a rich well of fresh ideas and perspectives by actively soliciting and facilitating participation from today's young.
2. Being more adept with technology. The environment of rapid technological development gives young leaders a leg up over their more senior colleagues. They are well-equipped to deal with the dynamic nature of today's workplace because of their familiarity with digital tools and technological proficiency. Their digital savvy and creativity can be invaluable to any organization and lead to considerable gains in efficiency and output. Young leaders have the potential to usher in the era of the technological pioneer.
3. Ability to influence public policy and societal norms. Leadership today includes more than just running profitable organizations or managing teams; it also involves influencing political and social change. There has never been a better time for young leaders to step up and tackle some of the world's most serious problems. Young leaders can improve society and politics by implementing innovative solutions and fostering a culture of social fairness. Young leaders have the potential to provide the world with the much-needed infusion of new ideas, views, and solutions. They can be agents of change who improve conditions for everyone if given the tools.
So, how can tomorrow's leaders seize these challenges and opportunities and rise to the occasion?
They must be risk-takers and eager to try new things first and foremost. It may require them to question established norms, assert their opinions, and step into uncharted roles.
Moreover, young leaders ought to concentrate on bettering themselves intellectually. They may look for role models, enroll in relevant training, and build professional relationships as part of this process. Young leaders can increase their effectiveness and impact by challenging themselves to learn and develop new skills.
Finally, young leaders should be willing to seek aid when struggling. A network of people who believe in you — a mentor, coworker, friend, or family member — can make all the difference.
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