by Chip Conley
In a world with people from four generations in the workplace, understanding how you can best contribute can be hard. For the older ranks at work, it might be hard to adjust as the “digital natives” begin to lead. Chip Conley suggests that the world for mid-career workers can be more exciting. They can be a more important part of any team with a few shifts in thinking.
Conley proposes that there are powerful roles and opportunities for the mid-career professional. Namely, that of “a modern elder.” An elder, rather than being elderly, is one who can provide experience, perspective, and yes, wisdom to others. When a person combines those attributes with genuine curiosity and the willingness to continue to learn, they become the modern elder this book discusses.
The book describes the value of this approach, both to individuals, and to organizations. But perhaps more importantly, it provides suggestions to help individuals grow into this role. This book provides a genuinely new idea – something that isn’t always true. Conley’s experience as a CEO and now an internal advisor provides a credible voice and perspective for his ideas.
If you are intrigued, you can order a copy of his book. But if you want to learn more, I recommend listening to him talk about these ideas. I had the pleasure of reading this book awhile back as a part of my preparation for having Chip Conley as a guest on The Remarkable Leadership Podcast (you can listen to our conversation here). Our conversation will provide you with even more reason to purchase this book.
Wisdom @ Work will give you new insights, regardless of your age. But if you are a mid-career professional looking for a way to provide even more value and perhaps re-ignite your passion at work, move this book to the top of your reading list.
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