As I see video of the millions packed into the National Mall for today's inauguration there is one thing I notice as a detail of the crowd. It is the amount of younger citizens. Across the crowd are next generation Americans and they are from all races, gender and I am sure various faith's as well. Many of these citizens will not be able to audibly hear a single word from today's events. To hear a speech is not what they are there for. They will be able to read it in near real time from their cell phones if they wish.
They are in place and have been in place since 4 or 5am this morning - some of them walking three hours just to get there. They are therebecause they want to be part of something gigantic. Of course I am sure most of them voted for Obama, but it is not as much about the candidate today as it is about being connected to a major purpose and a major event. This purpose connection mindset is part of the next generation's wiring and today is a picture perfect example. This historical day is only going to inspire that mindset in them even more.
This connectivityy to a purpose desire is very important for leaders to be aware of and make a part of their leadership repertoire. If you are leading the dynamics of next generation talent, be sure you are connecting all efforts to a purpose larger than the bottom line. If you are part of the next generation - be sure and seek out or even create companies that have a purpose that people can connect to.
Too many organizations spend too much time on the old PDL - Policies, Disciplines and Legalities vs the new PDL - Purpose Driven Life of the organization and its people. We will see a continued shift towards the new PDL as time progresses and next gen leaders begin to assume roles of management and executive positions.
Senior leaders in organizations should work hard to connect purpose to people's jobs while teaching the many hard skills required to lead and run organizations. If you are a Sr. leader who works with a younger next generation - find out what your next gen leaders are passionate about. You might not be able to link their passions directly to your brand, but your interest in their interests will raise your leadership ability.
Common differences in color, creed, and belief are less and less an issue in the mainstream. A common belief in something large is not prejudice to its possessor - it is part of their wiring. We must keep asking and challenging ourselves how we can reach people that no one else is reaching and serving people that no one else is serving.
This is necessary thinking for businesses, churches or any organization that aspires to be successful for the future personalities.
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