Employers who refuse to adapt to the expectations of younger generations are losing out on top talent, as they leave for positions at companies with more modern practices. Learn what companies need to do to fit into the new normal in the workplace.

Generation Y sees the world differently from any other generation in modern memory. And nowhere is this more evident than in the workplace. The astronomical shifts that this generation has seen in the economy, technology, and the world have changed what they want from life and work–which is not a 9-5 existence for forty-plus years, leading to a typical retirement at sixty-five. What older generations call a poor work ethic from a spoiled generation, Gen Y sees as a different way of getting things done. Companies that don’t get on board risk losing the diverse, young talent that is critical for them to be able to compete.

Review:

If you only read one book on leadership this year make it Next Generation Leadership by Adam Kingl (and then stand in front of a mirror and say: “Dude, seriously, why do you only read one leadership book a year?”) Kingl’s thoughtful, insightful and engaging style makes this much more than a book on leading across generations – vital though that is. It perfectly captures the changing nature of leadership itself. The perennial truths, the current priorities, the evolving context are all skilfully explained, with a bias towards engaging the reader and providing practical support. Much as a great leader would, in fact. I liked that the book both challenged some notions of leadership and emphasised others, encompassing a wide range of issues from loyalty, team and development to agility, purpose and virtual working, all with a clear-eyed focus on the need to succeed as someone leading oneself, a team, or an entire organisation, in the third decade of the 21st century.  The world needs more and better leadership, and that includes the ability to connect with others, especially the next generation; to provide a positive and open vision, and to be practical – understanding the big picture while also sweating the details. Kingl shows the way forward: “Skilled leaders meet people empathically and find a way to appeal to their deeper aspirations, hopes, dreams, and values. The good news is that this means we are evolving towards greater care of people and planet.” Seriously, if you do only read one leadership book a year then this one might just change your ways.