Why It’s Crucial to Develop Emerging Leaders
As the workforce undergoes a dramatic shift, with Baby Boomers retiring in large numbers, businesses are facing a leadership gap. To remain competitive, organisations must focus on developing Gen Z and Millennial talent. These younger generations bring new perspectives, adaptability, and digital expertise, but they also need guidance and nurturing to prepare them for the responsibilities of leadership.
Emerging leaders are poised to step up and take on leadership roles—but only if they are given the right resources and support to succeed. Empowering them through coaching, skill development, and leadership opportunities is key to ensuring a smooth transition when older generations step away.
Rethink Your View of Emerging Leaders
One of the first steps to effectively develop emerging leaders is changing the way we view them. Too often, there is a misconception that younger employees lack the experience or readiness to take on leadership positions. However, both Gen Z and Millennials are more than capable of stepping into leadership roles with the proper guidance and development.
Gen Z
The first generation to grow up in a fully digital world. Tech-savvy, entrepreneurial, and socially aware, they are driven by authenticity, transparency, and a desire to make an impact. They prefer working in collaborative environments and value inclusivity and innovation.
Millennials
Now in their late 20s to early 40s, have already proven themselves in the workforce. Many are already taking on leadership roles, bringing a strong sense of purpose to their work. They are solution-oriented, embrace flexibility, and are passionate about improving workplace culture.
Recognising that these emerging leaders have unique strengths—whether it’s their tech skills or their focus on social responsibility—can help shift your organisation’s approach to leadership development.
Invest in the Development of Your Emerging Leaders
Leadership development is not a one-time training session—it’s an ongoing process. Many businesses make the mistake of treating leadership development as a box to check during annual performance reviews or succession planning. However, the most successful organisations are those that continuously invest in leadership development, year-round.
While technical proficiency is important, leadership qualities such as emotional intelligence, decision-making, and team dynamics are just as crucial. By making a consistent investment in these areas, you are not just preparing them for their current role but setting them up for long-term success.
For instance, coaching programs, leadership workshops, and regular performance reviews are all great tools to develop future leaders. Fostering a culture of continuous feedback can also help your emerging leaders understand where they excel and where they need to grow.
Empower the Next Generation of Emerging Leaders
As organisations face the “Great Retirement,” there is an urgent need to prepare the next generation of leaders. Gen Z and Millennials are ready to take on leadership roles—but they need the right tools, resources, and support to do so effectively. By shifting your perspective, investing in continuous leadership development, focusing on soft skills, offering stretch assignments, and implementing coaching programs, you can empower emerging leaders to thrive.
The time to start preparing is now. Ensure that your organisation remains competitive by developing the leaders of tomorrow, today.
