Bridge the Gap: Leading Multi-Generation Crews while recognizing Individuality

Officers must acknowledge generational differences and develop common goals for team members

The move from firefighter to company officer is one of the hardest transitions in the fire service – and the challenges of this transition are intensified by the need to navigate supervision of a multi-generational crew with varied characteristics, motivations and values.

Whether you’re a younger officer leading crewmembers who have years, if not decades, of experience or a more seasoned officer leading a new crop of members, there will be communication and supervisory bumps along the road. It’s vital that new officers recognize the challenges, address the differences in communication styles among different groups, work to reach all members, and devise a common pathway to which all members can relate, thereby creating connections among the crew. Read More…