In a world of dynamic industrial and technological changes that demands organizational agility and innovation, a next-generation of leader is required. In many upcoming organizations, this new leader is setting the tone and the pace. This new leader doesn’t rely on hierarchical structures, unyielding processes, a comfortable status-quo, or short-term performance results; instead, this leader is a master at empowering inspiration, autonomy and seeking long-term, sustainable, development. They strategically cultivate and apply ideas, and ultimately create the world they want to see.
From our research and experience with these leaders, 6 unique characteristics seem to set these leaders apart from their traditional counterparts.
1. Cultivating Inspiration: Inspiration – for people within organizations and without – can be fleeting, unexpected, and untimely, and this next-gen leader not only understands this… but seeks it. These leaders know how to encourage inspiration and unharnessed natural talent from individuals through tactile use of soft skills, open communication channels and a genuine belief that his/her staff are truly capable of extraordinary accomplishments.
2. Generates Autonomy: These next-gen leaders are independently motivated and self-governing. Once calibrated on the definition of “good” performance, they require little encouragement to initiate and see-through projects, and their motivated, dedicated and self-governing capabilities set the pace for their peers and team members.
3. Listening: The next generation of leaders are incredible listeners… attune to peers, environmental conditions, industry dynamics, and operational opportunities. Listening is their medium of inspiration, but requires constant attention and interest. These leaders don’t just listen because they have to, they listen because every conversation will contain breadcrumbs that lead them to their next big idea. They also listen because they want to, as they pursue career paths that bring them not only financial rewards but a personal value in enjoying what they do.
4. Comprehending: Part of being an effective listener, includes really internalizing and reflecting upon conversations. Comprehension is essential – both because it reinforces the open communication channels between peers, and it means that these ideas have been internalized for future application. Understanding these ideas and being able to strategically apply them is critical though, and likely require a good dose of gut-instinct to assess viability.
5. Taking Risks: When the time is right, our leader has the inspiration, capability and drive to take risks in implementing these big ideas. They are accustomed to taking calculated risks, and lead their team forward as they respond to implementation hurdles just as they’ve initiated their idea – with a good dose of gut instinct.
6. Learning: Learning is what ties this all together – with each idea heard and implemented, our next generation leader continues to learn – infinitely, because the success of their position requires it. Resting and maintaining the status quo isn’t a long-term option, nor would they want it to be.
This next generation of leaders will yield new levels of innovative progress and results to organizations who provide them with the necessary horizontal organizational structure, adaptive work environments, and appropriate individual growth plans to match their own organizational commitment. In a world where innovation is imperative, what is your organization doing to create a path for these leaders? What can you do today to help foster this new leadership style? Become one of these leaders yourself.
