Age and Leadership—Does it Matter?
by Janet Skeie July 28, 2008
The June 2008 edition of the AARP Bulletin has a headline on the front, "A Question of Leadership, What's age got to do with it?" The article focuses on the age of the two front runners for U.S. President, one with many years of experience and the other with only a few years of experience.
I realized this question, what does age have to do with leadership is a great lead-in to the new ALVA class. As a society, do we assume an older adult will be a better leader? Conversely, is a younger adult not as effective as a leader? Do older adults need different skills to be effective leaders?
The questions apply not only to politics but to every organization, community group, and neighborhood association. All organizations need good leaders who are judged on their abilities not their age. ALVA is an opportunity to develop your leadership skills. We all need leadership skills, at every stage of life. This program is geared towards people with life experience who want to improve their skills or learn new ones. Now is the time to challenge yourself, get involved and make a difference.
What do you care about, what are you interested in? Find a group or organization that reflects your interests and values, most and will welcome your time and skills. This is the place to start with your new leadership skills.
I was a participant in the ALVA class of 2005/2006. I am still learning and practicing leadership skills; it's a continuous journey for me.
This blog is another new experience in my life journey, so come along for the ride. Comments are welcome.
Comments
Kris - 2008-08-18 10:21:59
Janet such true words and great questions. I think our challenges are getting society to recognize quality comes at all ages. And, as we look for different roles later in life we do still want to be engaged in meaningful "work". The personal challenge is finding that direction that draws you, that you care about so much you are driven to make something happen.
Thanks for sharing your thoughts, can't wait to read more!