Attracting Young Leaders

As leaders we're always on the look out for aspiring young leaders we can develop and invest into. When it comes to developing new leaders it seems that most of the focus is on the young leader who is being developed. What about our role as leaders to attract younger leaders? Is our leadership compelling to young leaders, or are we turning them away and not even realizing we're doing so?

Brad Lomenick recently identified nine characteristics of leaders who attract young leaders. I thought it was worthy of sharing with you.

1. Humility, combined with incredible passion and skill. Jim Collins writes about this as the key characteristic of a level 5 leader.
2. Unwavering commitment to reaching their desired audience and accomplishing the mission. Know the hill they are climbing and willing to fight to get to the top.
3. The IT factor- hard to explain, but easy to spot.
4. Collaboration and not competition, celebrating others victories along with your own.
5. Willing to give over responsibility vs. a “wait your turn” mentality- will allow young leaders to lead if they are qualified and can handle it.
6. Authenticity- They keep it real. Young leaders clamor towards authentic and honest leaders.
7. Open to change- if they are not open to change no one will follow them.
   
8. Can have at least a little fun. Like attracts like. It’s a reality= regardless of age, demographic, and style.
9. Passionately create a culture that takes risks, allows for failure, and thinks outside the box.

So how does your leadership stack up in each of these areas? Don't trust your own opinion, ask those you serve with to give you their honest feedback. The most profitable thing we can do to develop great leaders is to first of all be a great leader ourselves.