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Over the past decade, the professional landscape has undergone significant changes, moving away from the traditional hierarchical structure where employees feared their bosses. This shift has been accompanied by a greater emphasis on mental well-being in the workplace, with the recognition that happy, mentally healthy employees are more productive. As the Gen Z demographic becomes a larger part of the workforce, studies show that they respond positively to leaders who treat them with kindness and empathy.
To inspire and motivate young employees, leaders should take the time to understand their motivations. This goes beyond a simple question about what motivates them, as employees may feel intimidated and provide answers they believe their managers want to hear. Building trust and genuinely engaging with their lives and well-being is crucial to gaining insight into their motivations.
Once leaders understand what motivates their team, they can leverage this knowledge to play into their strengths. For example, if an employee's passion lies in writing rather than reporting, their role can be adjusted to allow them to embrace their strengths, potentially leading to improved performance and reduced turnover rates.
Being open and vulnerable about past experiences can also enhance the relationship between leaders and younger employees. Embracing a more collaborative approach, where younger employees are valued for their innovative ideas, fosters a supportive environment and drives the company forward.
In conclusion, nurturing and valuing younger employees is essential for the success of any organization. By inspiring and empowering young workers, businesses can benefit from their creativity and unique perspectives, ultimately driving competitiveness and innovation.