Working Across Generations

WORKING ACROSS GENERATIONS

Leadership change is happening today in organizations all across the United States. In both business and the nonprofit social sector, as well as in government and foundations, long-time leaders are talking about what they will do next and wondering who will take their place while new generations prepare for the future. It is a time of great hope and possibility, and a time of challenge and loss. Working Across Generations offers those working in and affiliated with nonprofit groups the opportunity to think ahead and to proceed thoughtfully during this turbulent period of change. It presents a comprehensive look at the leadership transition and generational shift that the nonprofit sector faces and gives readers practical advice on how they can prepare for this inevitable shift in healthy ways.

The authors provide a range of ideas on how to approach generational shifts in leadership so that the contributions of long-time leaders are valued, new and younger leaders' talent is recognized, and groups are better prepared to work across generational divides. Giving context to these differences, they explore the current assumptions about the upcoming transition between generations in the social sector; introduce new ideas or frames for thinking about generational leadership change; and examine how this change poses individual, organizational, and systemic challenges for those in the social sector. In addition, they provide numerous examples and practical exercises to show how to address these issues. The book concludes with critical advice on how to communicate across generations and key recommendations for future research and action.