Deloitte, in its global Millennial survey 2019 (which included Gen Zs) found that Millennials are sceptical of business’ motives. Only 49% of Millennials indicated that business leaders generally behave ethically. In addition, respondents did not think highly of leaders’ impact on society, their commitment to improving the world, or their trustworthiness.
Those in leadership positions are the template for the future leadership potential. The risk we run is that current leaders are becoming an example of opposite modelling for those in the pipeline. Young leaders in the making want to be able to look up to current leaders, and see them as setting an example of how to deal with tough situations.
Given the indications that Millennials are sceptical about business’ motives, there is clearly a need for leaders to sit up and listen. What is it that Millennials need from current leaders? What can be done to fix the situation?