Frances Kunreuther's study, The Changing of the Guard: What Generational Differences Tell us about Social-Change Organizations makes several very interesting points that caught my eye. I am often troubled by the premise that young professionals "these days" aren't as dedicated to their careers and causes as Baby Boomers. The fact that Kunreuther found evidence to support almost opposite conclusions really gives me hope (and makes me a little angry that my generation is shouldering a lot of blame without cause). Here are 2 of her findings:

1) Members of Generation X and Y are far from being "slackers:"

"Younger people were actually more likely than their older counterparts—whether they were directors or staff—to talk about how much they loved their job. Most were putting in long hours, and those who worked a 9-to-5 schedule were as likely to be older directors as young staff."

2) Many senior managers and directors are neglecting the development of their staff and the management of their orgnizations:

"Baby Boomer directors were quick to confess that they had little or no interest in the management of their organizations. They were in it for the work, not for what they saw as the administrative tasks that came with building an organization."

These findings suggest that Generation X and Y workers may be quite willing to take the lead in organizations. However, they need training and support from their supervisors and other leaders in the sector before they are ready and able.