FYI--I've realized many people write or blog ABOUT Millenials but are not ones themselves. As this blog has evolved I hope to explore what it means to be a Millenial leader in a Boomer-led organization.
The ability to translate the meaning and intention of a person above and below is a critical piece of millenial leadership.
When I interact with boomers I'm having to translate many facets of their communication styles. In Christian culture I notice that boomers LOVE exhortation--Millenials STRUGGLE with exhortation.
Regardless of intention exhortation can feel impersonal and inauthentic. I've noticed that socially immature millenials can completely check out at the hint of an exhortative boomer.
In the context of leading this dynamic can SIGNIFICANTLY hinder interactions even though both sides are not intentionally trying to frustrate each other.
If a Millenial expects those above him or her to do the translating they usually experience FRUSTRATION, DISCOURAGEMENT, and with our nature to take things extremely personal, can lead to major ineffectiveness.
My best advice: ASSUME authenticity when exhorted by a Boomer. TRANSLATE that exhortation into a more specific conversation about giftings, passions, or strengths. Exhortation is often hard for me to take because it can be so general: "we should always be keeping our heart set on the Lord."
I've turned some of these initially frustrating exhortations redeemed by following up with something specific: "as much as I try to set my heart on the Lord, I find that ______can trip me up. Do you have any suggestions as to how to grow in that area?" It seems like pursuing specifics is an effective form of translation between boomers and millenials.
If you are a millenial or younger, how are your translation skills? Do you feel the same way about exhortation from those older than you?
photo courtesy of morfina
