Why Boomer CEO’s Are In A Hurry
In business everything is moving very fast, but for the C-Level baby boomer it probably isn’t fast enough. Is the baby boomer CEO really in a hurry?
Business leaders always need to face the reality of external pressure. Economic conditions, in some cases government regulations, and most certainly changes in technology are all putting pressure on organizational performance.
All C-Level executives have concerns about the value of time. The CFO eats, breathes, and sleeps with thoughts about the TMV, and those responsible for operations and sales are trying to get 90 seconds out of every minute.
As they develop strategy and create strategic plans they are always connecting the amount of time with resource requirements.
You get it. Most business owners and C-Level executives face this reality every day, it’s certainly nothing new.
Have you ever considered what drives the vision for a millennial leader as compared with that of a baby boomer?
Sure both recognize the need for performance and that there is an element of time associated with that performance, but is there a difference in their perception of urgency? Absolutely and here are a few reasons why.
- Perception of time. Ask a 30 year old executive what is personally most important for their career in the next 5 to 10 years, and then ask a 55 year old executive the same question. You might be, but shouldn’t be, surprised with the differences in their response.
- Values and beliefs. Generational differences are real. The life experiences, values, and belief systems are shaped differently for earlier generations as compared with the most recent. Many factors contribute to shaping these differences but there are notable differences, and they are not just about age.
- Visions of legacy. While legacy seems like a big bold word, the characteristics of what it means are prevalent in the mind of the traditional or boomer C-Level executive. In contrast, the personal goals and objectives for a millennial are often not based on any connection with legacy. They don’t see a finish line, just a lot of space to accomplish more.
So why are boomer CEO’s in more of a hurry?
You can make the argument that all C-Level executives have an impressive resume. However, for the millennial executive the book of accomplishments (metaphorically) is still in the early chapters, with the end unknown and not in sight. There is still time.
On the other hand the boomer C-Level executive will likely have enough content to fill their book, but at this stage they are really most concerned about bringing together the last couple of chapters. As they see it, their window of opportunity is closing.
Most important of all, the boomer executive wants their book to be a best seller.
– DEG
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Dennis E. Gilbert is a business consultant, speaker (CSPTM), and corporate trainer that specializes in helping businesses and individuals accelerate their leadership, their team, and their success. He is a four-time author and some of his work includes, Forgotten Respect, Navigating A Multigenerational Workforce and Pivot and Accelerate, The Next Move Is Yours! Reach him through his website at Dennis-Gilbert.com or by calling +1 646.546.5553.
