Guidance from Political Strategist Amanda Litman for Future Leaders in Her Latest Publication 'When We're In Charge'
A Fresh Take on Leadership for the Next Generation
In the era of young, ambitious leaders taking the reins, Amanda Litman's book, When We Lead: Our Guide to Revolutionizing Leadership, makes a timely and essential appearance. This insightful guide is crafted explicitly for those aspiring to positions of power - the millennials and Gen Zers who are eager to redefine the conventional notion of leadership.
Amanda Litman, co-founder and president of Run for Something, a premier organization that champions young, progressive leaders running for local office, brings a unique perspective to the table. Since its inception in 2017, Run for Something has propelled thousands of inspiring millennials and Gen Z candidates into political positions, many of whom are women and people of color, shaping the face of leadership moving forward.
Litman's decision to pen this book stems from a realization made early in her career that there were few resources available to help young executives navigate the challenges specific to their generation. In When We Lead, she shares candid recollections of her own experiences as a founder, executive, and parent, alongside lessons gained from over 100 conversations with visionary leaders across diverse sectors, such as politics, business, media, technology, education, and beyond.
In an exclusive interview, I delved deeper into Litman's vision for leadership and her insights on how the next generation can create a transformative, inclusive, and effective workplace culture.
What Is When We Lead For, and What Inspired You to Write This Book Now?
The book is primarily designed for millennials and Gen Zers who seek to become leaders or are already in leadership positions. However, its essence extends to anyone keen on shaping spaces that are compassionate, genuine, and effective.
In 2017, Litman founded Run for Something at the tender age of 26, realizing she was often the youngest executive in the room. She observed the stark differences between her challenges and those of more experienced leaders, sensing a need for a fresh paradigm of leadership that caters to the unique circumstances of her generation. Fueled by requests from political reporters who noticed a common thread among her candidates' success stories, Litman began writing When We Lead to plant the seeds of change.
Empowering New Paradigms of Leadership
In traditional settings, women were required to conform to conservative attire and male-dominated, assertive leadership styles. However, in recent years, we've witnessed a breakthrough in the spectrum of leadership approaches, as women and other underrepresented groups take their places in various sectors. By shattering norms, this new wave of leaders is paving the way for innovative, authentic leadership that does not compromise on compassion and effectiveness.
To foster this shift, it is essential to embrace diversity, amplifying voices from various backgrounds and experiences. By challenging and expanding the notion of what leadership can look like, we can foster a more inclusive, dynamic, and productive workforce.
Reimagining the Workplace Culture
Transforming the workplace culture is crucial to nurturing future leaders and fostering success. In a world where work-life balance is imperative, leaders are called upon to create environments that prioritize employee well-being and addressing the challenges they face head-on. This may include fostering a four-day workweek, providing paid time off, implementing paid family leave policies, and ensuring that teams have the necessary support systems in place. By cultivating such a caring and effective work environment, leaders can empower their teams to thrive and achieve their goals.
Litman's Vision for the Next Generation of Leaders
Amanda Litman dreams of a future where leaders take their roles as stewards of their teams, preventing workplace fatigue and burnout caused by excessive expectations. Instead, she envisions an empowered workforce, where employees are respected as people first and workers second. By prioritizing overall well-being, leaders can build stronger, more united teams, working together to achieve their objectives and navigate challenges as they arise.
For more about Amanda Litman and her work, visit AmandaLitman.com
- Amanda Litman, the co-founder and president of Run for Something, has written a book titled "When We Lead: Our Guide to Revolutionizing Leadership" that aims to empower millennials and Gen Zers who aspire to become leaders, offering a fresh approach to leadership that caters to their unique circumstances.
- In the book, Litman shares insights gained from over 100 conversations with visionary leaders across various sectors such as business, politics, education, entertainment, and more, providing practical advice and personal anecdotes for young leaders navigating challenges in their careers.
- The book's essence is not limited to millennials and Gen Zers; it extends to anyone seeking to create compassionate, genuine, and effective spaces, be it in business, finance, lifestyle, or general news.
- Recognizing the need for a fresh paradigm of leadership, Litman founded Run for Something in 2017, an organization that champions young, progressive leaders running for local office, helping to diversify leadership and shape its future.
- Amanda Litman's vision for the next generation of leaders involves fostering a work culture that prioritizes overall well-being, respects employees as people first, and creates working environments that encourage work-life balance, promote innovation, and foster team unity.
