Phyllis Korkki, an assignment editor at The New York Times, found unexpected wisdom in a mentor half her age. This surprising revelation led her to explore the concept of reverse mentoring, where younger employees guide their older colleagues, particularly in technology and social media. This concept has been embraced by many companies, including General Electric and UnitedHealth Group, to bridge the generational gap and foster innovation.
Korkki discovered that younger mentors bring fresh perspectives and are often more informed about digital trends. They can help older employees navigate the rapidly evolving technological landscape, aiding them to stay current and relevant. The benefits of reverse mentoring are mutual, as older workers can offer their younger counterparts insights into the company culture, decision-making processes, and industry knowledge.
Despite the potential benefits, some older employees may resist the idea due to ego or fear of appearing out of touch. It’s crucial to foster an open-minded culture where all employees, regardless of age, are encouraged to learn from each other. Reverse mentoring is not just about learning new skills; it can also help to break down generational stereotypes and promote a more inclusive and diverse workplace.
In a world where technology is advancing at an unprecedented pace, reverse mentoring could prove to be a valuable tool for companies aiming to stay ahead of the curve.
Go to source article: http://www.nytimes.com/2016/09/11/business/what-could-i-possibly-learn-from-a-mentor-half-my-age.html?_r=1