Central Otago employers are showing strong interest in understanding and working with younger generations, with a new workshop selling out in both Alexandra and Cromwell.
Supported by Central Otago District Council’s Mayors Taskforce for Jobs (MTFJ), Understanding and Leading Younger Generations was developed and delivered by Fi McKay of Legend Transformational Leadership Company. It attracted 49 people from 19 local businesses across Alexandra and Cromwell.
“Our young people are the future of Central Otago, and seeing so many business leaders turn out to learn how to better support them is fantastic,” said Central Otago District Mayor Tamah Alley.
“We want our rangatahi to feel valued and motivated to build their careers right here at home.”
The session explored the values, motivations, behaviours and expectations of different generations in the workplace, with a particular focus on understanding younger workers. Participants heard different perspectives on how generational differences can shape the way people communicate and work together.
Duane Sutton, Group Operations Manager at Southern Lakes ITM, said it prompted useful reflection on how businesses can balance consistent expectations with an evolving workforce.
“The workshop was a really useful reminder that while we have standards and expectations we hold everyone to, we also need to recognise that the people coming into our workforce are changing," he said.
"For us, it’s about being clear about what matters, while being open to adapting how we attract, retain and develop our people so they have every opportunity to succeed.”
Participants came away with practical ideas they could put into action, including ways to adapt communication and leadership approaches, strengthen workplace culture, and create opportunities for mentoring and knowledge sharing across generations.
The workshops grew from conversations MTFJ was having with local employers about working across generations and the changing dynamics of the workplace. Fi McKay drew on her expertise in leadership and workplace development to turn that feedback into practical, relevant content for businesses - supporting stronger workplaces and a more connected local workforce.
