“From enthusiasm to embracing technology, there are a lot of positives to mention here, the biggest of which may be they want it now—whatever it is,” Ray Titus, CEO of United Franchise Group, a family of affiliated brands with over 1,600 franchisees globally, writes for Fast Company.
“And the biggest challenge is they want it now,” Titus notes. “That’s right: Their biggest positive is also their biggest challenge or weakness. Being patient and learning the lessons of life has never been easy for any younger generation, but we must help them understand it’s needed for any growth."
Successful employers will know how to leverage the desire for Gen X and millennials to do what it takes to make the business thrive in the now, while also letting them know that slowing down may be the best approach at times.
“Remember that while your older team members will accept your authority, you must earn their respect before they follow you wholeheartedly,” Titus writes. “Remember: One day, you’ll have to work with—or for—younger leaders yourself. Gen Z is right behind you and coming up fast.”