Once I was the youngest person in the room. Now, at 50 I’m often the oldest. This is good news.
Organisations dominated by geriatrics tend not to prosper. Fresh blood must be injected regularly across any institution to maintain vigour and faith in the future.
Every business should involve 20- and 30-somethings at the top as a matter of policy. For example, a retailing friend has formed a “youth board” for his business. This comprises six of his brightest up-and-comers, who meet monthly to debate strategy and operations. Their role is to challenge the statutory directors and address the concerns and opportunities of customers under 40. Responsibility has been thrust on their shoulders and suddenly they are taking decisions and feeling empowered. This is how they will learn to handle authority and make a difference.