Posted on May 12, 2016
Why are many Senior Leaders afraid of Generational change?
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I read alot of these posts on rally point, and I see Senior Leaders berating subordinates for challenging the status quo, or thinking outside the box. Maybe I understand it better because I'm out here on recruiting trying to get Generation Z to join, but generations change they react different, they are more technological, they learn from their tablets, or phones. They are more aware than our generation of the worlds issues but aren't doers like ours. So we as leaders will have to adapt our leadership skills to their particular mindset. As leaders we don't have one style of leading, we are multifaceted. I watch so many Senior leaders say "well back in my day", truth is you adapt or become left behind. Prime example is COIN Operations FM 3-24 one of the biggest failures of this war, and so many Senior Leaders preached it like it was the Gospel. It didn't work in Vietnam and after 15 years of conflict during OIF/OEF, and many WIA/KIA later, it takes Generals to challenge the Status Quo then get fired or resign? Bottom Line is never berate your subordinate from asking any question, even if you think its stupid, challenge them to think outside the box and not be robotic yes men. Finally im done with my Soap Box what are your Thoughts?
Senior Leaders
Generation
Millennials
Tradition
Posted 8 y ago
Responses: 14
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I think you have some valid points. That being said the military has a long tradition of doing some things in a certain way because it works. If you join an organization that is 250 years old expect some things to be very set in stone.
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SFC Wade W.
SSG Vik Polivka - exactly. I made the statement as I have been reading about people who want to get rid of formations, inspections, CoC, etc. If you don't want those things, don't join the Army.
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SSG Vik Polivka
SFC Wade W. - While I agree that leaders should adapt to their surroundings, the most important part of Army Leadership is in the start of the definition (influencing), there is a method behind the madness. The Army Times recently had an article on issues with new Soldiers, and the generation associated with them.
Now, if the question posed is simply about allowing subordinates to question methods, I see that as a good thing. Given that "...I will never leave them uninformed...", as long as the situation permits, trying to address a potential issue in advance, and possibly improving efficiency is great.
"No one is more professional than I...", so no, don't berate the Soldier.
Now, dealing with "that guy" (or girl), who is trying to sharp shoot me for S and G's...that's a whole different story. I used to like to bet 8 counts on who was right, and I was usually not the one performing the exercise. Usually. I've been wrong before.
Now, if the question posed is simply about allowing subordinates to question methods, I see that as a good thing. Given that "...I will never leave them uninformed...", as long as the situation permits, trying to address a potential issue in advance, and possibly improving efficiency is great.
"No one is more professional than I...", so no, don't berate the Soldier.
Now, dealing with "that guy" (or girl), who is trying to sharp shoot me for S and G's...that's a whole different story. I used to like to bet 8 counts on who was right, and I was usually not the one performing the exercise. Usually. I've been wrong before.
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CDR Jon Corrigan
"...the military has a long tradition of doing some things in a certain way because it works."
I would only add that the following was beaten into our brains from Day One: 'Some of our Standard Operating Procedures may, at times, seem unnecessary or even silly, but I can assure you they exist because, over the years, much blood has been spilled and many lives lost.'
I would only add that the following was beaten into our brains from Day One: 'Some of our Standard Operating Procedures may, at times, seem unnecessary or even silly, but I can assure you they exist because, over the years, much blood has been spilled and many lives lost.'
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SSG (Join to see) Comments: The current generation is not more technological than earlier generations. looking at a phone or tablet all day does not mean they are doing serious work. The current generation is not more aware of world issues than earlier generations. Current leaders may have to adapt, but the current generation has to also adapt. A phone or tablet will not solve all problems.
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SSG (Join to see)
You are dead wrong my friend, please read up on generation Z, I lead a Board of Directors on my off time, and recruit during the day its my job to understand my market
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SSgt (Join to see)
I would agree with SSG (Join to see) that the younger generations are more tech savvy than generations before because they have never had a time without the internet and things we have today. But you are right that doesn't mean they can automatically do something tech related better than an older person because knowledge and experience then comes into play.
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Actually, it's been my experience (37 years worth in the Army) that "generational change" has been immaterial when it comes to perceptions of any generation (in the military). Any good leader is always looking for individuals who think "outside the box" or think period provided they do it within left and right limits. The issue is getting results (good ones) within acceptable time frames - not running debates and study groups. When time permits, I've asked my Soldiers for their opinions or their thoughts on how to best accomplish something. When time doesn't permit this approach I rely on my experience and training and direct them. No one wants or needs robotic yes men, at least from what I've seen. What I have to disagree on is that "Generation Z" is more aware of the world's issues. Frankly, most that I've dealt with and have known don't even know US current events (the exception being Soldiers). I have a 21 year old daughter and know many of her friends in the 18 - 25 year age group. Sure, some care about what's going on in the world but most are clueless. I do agree that they are all more technology oriented.
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