Intergenerational Leadership for Improved Knowledge Transfer

Abstract

Inter-generational leadership has been defined as leadership aware of the generational differences and their potential contributions, where leaders from different generations are clearly identified and mutually respected. Intergenerational leadership becomes more crucial as the current workforce is historically unique in its age diversity, in part thanks to higher life expectancy and delayed retirement. The generational mix comprises Baby Boomers, X, Y (aka millennials), and the emerging Z. In some cases, the Silent Generation (“Maturists”) is also in the blend. This poses new challenges and opportunities for managers and leaders. Further, the relationship with technology is particularly pertinent, as the speed of this evolution and its impact on so many aspects of life is arguably the most profound. Hence, adopting a systematic literature review with content analysis, the aim of this chapter is to enhance the understanding of intergenerational leadership, and its role in improved knowledge transfer.