A New Generation of Leaders
Exclusive Interview with Stedman Graham - Businessman & Author
Jun 8, 2009
Q. What differences and similarities do you see in how older generations perceive leadership compared to the new and upcoming generation? And what impact does it have on the present and future business world?
The vast amount of available information makes matters more complex and the world is not as "simple" as it used to be when baby boomers were growing up. Young people have a different attitude. By nature, they are less patient. They never had to be as everything is at their fingertips with a click of a mouse which offers an edge and opportunity.
It appears to me that there are more meaningful relationships built among baby boomers. On the other hand, now, there is more opportunity than ever before. However, because the younger generation is so driven by technology and information, they are consequently less focused on themselves and not able to determine what they should really be doing with this information and identifying their own purpose in this fast moving world.
Think about it, older generations had 2-3 different type of jobs in their lifetime, now 17-18 jobs is the norm. Another aspect to consider is the decrease in possible retirement for the younger generation. Most likely there will be no social security and job security is a major issue.
All this will impact the economy greatly. There is less money available. Younger people will have to lower their expectations when it comes to wages and possible continue living at home after finishing college. The ability to rise as an entrepreneur is lessened because of the skills one needs to operate in the 21st century. Socially, young people have more opportunity to create social relationships but they have to be more grounded to help them decipher the information or make information more relevant or actionable based on their individual mission. My Nine Step Process to Success gives a roadmap on how to do that.
Q. If you could give one bit of advice to all emerging leaders in this new economic reality, what would it be?
Specialize in something that is relevant to who you so you can become an expert in your field, add value and be as productive as you can! This is the core base one can build on and develop. There are two types of knowledge: general and specialized. General knowledge makes one a commodity and does not set one apart from the competition. Specialized knowledge and abilities, however, is the only one can create great opportunity and make a significant amount of money while impacting society. When one is a specialist in their field, they know more than most people in a particular areas. People will knock on their door because they are looking for specific expertise in the market place.
Q. Today's heroes are often people with fame and fortune who do extraordinary things on a global scale. Who are your heroes?
My heroes used to be the names in the history books one reads about. Now, I have people that I admire for the work they have done realizing that we are all the same and that people simply differ in resources they employ to do their work. I try take something from every person regardless if they are considered a hero or not and figure out what I can learn from them to better my own life. It takes away the pressure of what you think a person should be - none of us are perfect. That's how I deal with heroism.
Read more about Stedman Graham and Interviews with him in Stedman Graham Guides Women to Success and Identity Passport to Freedom.
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