The way we approach work is constantly evolving, and the arrival of Gen Z in the workforce presents a unique opportunity to re-evaluate our management styles. Eunice Maina-Mburu and Tego Wolasa offer valuable insights based on their experiences working with this generation.
A Mindset of Curiosity
Eunice emphasizes the importance of approaching Gen Z with curiosity. Instead of clinging to traditional methods, we should be open to the possibility that their perspectives hold value. This requires a shift from a hierarchical leadership style to a more collaborative approach, where we see ourselves as coaches rather than bosses.
Understanding Their Values
Gen Z comes from a place of abundance, unlike previous generations who may have faced scarcity and job insecurity. This shapes their priorities in the workplace. They seek purpose and meaning in their work, and if they can’t find it within an organization, they’re more likely to explore alternative avenues, like online ventures.
Focus on Purpose and Recognition
Both Eunice and Tego highlight the need to create a work environment that fosters a sense of purpose. Gen Z craves to feel useful and valued. Regular recognition of their contributions goes a long way in keeping them motivated.
Work-Life Balance is Paramount
For Gen Z, work-life balance is a non-negotiable. They prioritize personal well-being and will readily choose it over excessive work demands.
Effective Communication is Key
Open and clear communication is crucial for managing Gen Z. Setting expectations and desired outcomes through collaborative discussions is essential. They are also direct communicators, so take them at their word and create a space where they feel comfortable expressing themselves.
Remote Work and Flexibility
Gen Z thrives in flexible work environments. Consider offering remote work options or flexible schedules, but ensure clear deliverables are established.
Motivational Drivers
Unlike previous generations, Gen Z isn’t driven by fear of job loss. Instead, they are motivated by the desire for a good life in the present. Focusing on how your company can help them achieve that can be a powerful motivator.
Long-Term Planning
While long-term financial planning may not be a top priority for Gen Z, this doesn’t mean they are irresponsible. Understanding their drivers and adapting our leadership styles will allow us to create a more engaging and productive work environment for everyone.
Eunice Maina-Mburu is an Author, Entrepreneur & Sales coach while Tego Wolasa also an author and an entrepreneur is the founder and Executive Chairman of BTI College.
With a playful nudge and a mischievous glint in her eye, Fifty-three, my intrepid companion, stirs me awake on our sixth and final day in Lamu. “What time are we going for lunch, Lola?” she asks, her question laced with humor, considering we haven’t even had breakfast yet.
After a leisurely breakfast filled with laughter and conversation, the Lamu Palace Hotel’s non-functional ACs, thanks to the island’s frequent power cuts denied us a good night’s sleep thereby necessitating a midday nap. I awake to another gentle prod from Fifty-three, ready for the adventures she has meticulously planned.
Hand in hand, we walked through the vibrant streets of Amu, the sun painting long shadows as we strolled toward the tranquil beauty of Shela. A short motorcycle ride carried us along the sun-kissed shores towards Shela’s Kijani hotel, the salty breeze whispering secrets in our ears.
At the Kijani Hotel, perched on a balcony overlooking the turquoise water, we watched boats and dhows glide gracefully across the waves. The gentle breeze caressed our skin, carrying the scent of the sea and the thrill of the adventure ahead.
The gentle breeze caresses our faces, enhancing Fifty-three’s captivating beauty.
Evans, the ever-attentive waiter, arrives with our orders. Fresh pineapple juice for me and a hearty meal of white snapper and nan with a refreshing Pina Colada for my adventurous companion.
As we finish our meal, our captain’s call beckons us for a thrilling ride on the ocean. My quick order for a masala tea (which somehow ends up in Fifty-three’s possession for a “photo shoot”) marks the start of our journey.
Our adventure begins with a visit to Shela Public Beach, followed by a breathtaking ride along the shores of Ras Kitau. Captain Omar expertly navigates the boat, effortlessly gliding over the water as we head towards Kisumu Ndoto on Manda Island.
Unfortunately, low water levels prevent us from reaching our destination through the water channels. However, Captain Omar proves resourceful, arranging a motorcycle ride through the lush greenery, past bustling quarries and donkey carts laden with building stones.
The ancient air greets us as we finally reach the ruins of Takwa, a once-thriving 15th-century city. We explore the remnants of the grand mosque, walk along ancient pathways, and marvel at the Omani houses with their clear walls.
Lali, our knowledgeable guide, takes us on a journey back in time, weaving tales of the city’s glory and the struggles that led its inhabitants to flee to Shela.
As the sun begins its descent, painting the sky with hues of orange and purple, Lali leads us on a refreshing walk toward Pristine Takwa Beach. The 15-minute journey through the dense greenery along a narrow, white-sand path proves invigorating.
Fifty-three, with her playful fear of dogs, faces a new challenge as Lali’s three canine companions bound around us. Their playful antics only add to the joy of the moment.
Finally, the breathtaking sight of Pristine Takwa Beach unfolded before us. Crystal-clear water, warm and inviting, stretches before us, beckoning us in for a swim. The beach was everything we had imagined and more.
Takwa beach in Kenya. Lamu. Eastern Africa
We swam, dived, floated, and flirted, the gentle lapping of the waves and the soft sand beneath our feet creating a world of our own.
It was just us: two souls lost in the beauty of the moment, with only the sky, the sand, the ocean, and the nearby dark green growth, Lali, our ever-present photographer, and his three dogs, the playful English crabs scurrying in and out of the sand holes as witnesses to our private paradise.
No beach day is complete without a race, and we were no exception. We sprinted along the soft sand, the laughter echoing in the air, and for a moment, we were simply two carefree souls lost in the beauty of the moment.
As darkness descends, we reluctantly return to the ruins, our laughter echoing through the air. Lali accompanies us to the channel, where Captain Omar awaits our arrival on the wooden bridge.
Through the silhouettes of thick mangroves, we embark on a wordless journey along the narrow water channels, the quiet hum of the boat’s engine lulling us into a contemplative trance.
Captain Omar enjoys his miraa and Ethiopian Oromo beats, his love for these songs from a faraway land fueling the rhythmic hum of the boat engine. I lose myself in the melody, my voice joining Captain Omar’s as we sing along. Fifty-three, however, chooses to delve into her photo gallery, seeking solace from the eerie darkness that seems to close in around us.
The ten-minute ride feels like an eternity, silent, eerie, dark, and still. Reminiscent of the adventurous Anakonda movie. Finally, we reach the shores of Kisumu Ndoto, but our journey is not over. We continue towards Amu, huddled close together, our clothes wet and our shoes plastered with a mixture of water and white sand.
The salty scent lingers in the air, a reminder of our exhilarating adventure. As we look back, we are filled with a mixture of awe and nostalgia. The historical echoes of Takwa mingle with the memories of our private swim and playful laughter, creating a tapestry of experiences that will forever be etched in our hearts.
Back at the hotel, we take a quick shower, combine our prayers, and head down for dinner. Afterwards, we take our customary stroll along the streets of Amu, seeking out our nightly kahawa tungu by the ocean. Sadly, Mzee Farid Silaha is closed, but we find solace in another quaint seaside open cafe, sipping our coffee and reminiscing about the day’s adventures.
Finally, we returned to the Lamu Palace Hotel, where we had a pleasant chat on the balcony…
Lamu’s allure extends far beyond its ancient streets and vibrant culture. It lies in the mesmerizing expanse of the surrounding sea, where the island unveils its captivating beauty as day surrenders to twilight.
For those seeking a quintessential Lamu experience, a sunset dhow ride in the open sea adjacent to Shela is a must. This journey paints the sky with a fiery farewell and soothes the soul with the symphony of nature’s embrace.
Fifty-three and I, along with two jovial Caucasians (one of whom playfully dubbed herself “Honey”), set sail on a traditional wooden dhow, a vessel that has gracefully navigated Lamu’s waters for generations.
Our adventure began with a lively spectacle marking the end of Lamu Cultural Week: a diver’s competition. Contestants balanced on a slippery rod extending over the water, their eyes fixed on the flag at its end.
A sea of enthusiastic faces lined the shores, cheering as the divers skillfully maneuvered their way towards the flag. The first to reach and retrieve it emerged victorious, while those who fell elicited gasps and laughter from the onlookers.
As the diver’s competition concluded, we turned our attention to the next exciting event: a dhow rowing race. With muscles straining, rowers propelled their vessels across the water, their oars slicing through the waves with synchronized precision. The air crackled with anticipation as the boats surged forward, each rower striving to claim victory.
With the races concluded, our dhow, under Amin’s skillful captaincy, embarked on its journey towards Shela, a neighboring island that beckoned with its promise of tranquility and charm. White structures cast long reflections on the water channels as we passed.
Upon reaching Shela, we disembarked briefly, taking in the island’s laid-back atmosphere and the vibrant hues of its traditional Swahili architecture.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the water, we ventured further into the open sea. The vast expanse stretched before us like an endless canvas. The sky, a mesmerizing blend of oranges, yellows, and deep blues, reflected upon the water’s surface, creating a shimmering spectacle that mirrored the heavens above.
Lost in the enchanting embrace of twilight, we watched in silent awe as the sun dipped below the horizon, its fiery glow lingering upon the clouds, painting them in hues of deep orange and fiery pink.
The air, infused with the salty tang of the sea, enveloped us, carrying with it the whispers of ancient tales and the promise of an unforgettable experience.
Our dhow ride back to Lamu Island, under the cloak of darkness, was no less captivating. Captain Amin and his two assistants expertly maneuvered the dhow, harnessing the power of wind and engine to guide us safely back to shore.
The night sky, ablaze with stars, provided a celestial canopy, and the gentle lapping of waves against the dhow’s hull lulled us into a state of tranquil reverie.
As we disembarked, huddled close together, Fifty-three and I felt a surge of gratitude for the privilege of witnessing Lamu’s captivating beauty in all its splendor.
The dhow ride, a harmonious blend of laughter, competition, and natural wonders, had etched itself indelibly into our memories, a testament to the island’s enchanting allure and the indelible mark it leaves on those who immerse themselves in its magic.
In the realm of wealth creation, the pursuit of money itself often proves futile. Instead, the path to financial freedom lies in identifying and solving problems. This principle is eloquently articulated by James Jani in his youtube lecture, “The Untold Stories of Money.” He asserts that the key to amassing wealth lies in pursuing solutions rather than chasing monetary gains.
The bigger the problem you solve, the greater the potential rewards. Billionaire entrepreneurs like Jeff Bezos have all made their fortunes by addressing significant challenges faced by society. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the problem you tackle is scalable, meaning it has the potential to impact a large number of people. Don’t just think restaurant, think franchise. Think beyond a single location and envision a network of establishments reaching millions.
A job, while providing stability and income, is not the ultimate solution to financial freedom. In a job, you are essentially exchanging your time for money. Your earning potential is limited by the hours you work and the value your employer places on your time.
To break free from this cycle, follow these steps:
Identify a problem: Seek out problems that affect a large number of people and cause significant pain or inconvenience.
Solve the problem: Develop an innovative and effective solution that addresses the identified problem.
Confirm its scalability: Evaluate whether your solution can be replicated and applied to a wider audience, ensuring its potential for growth.
Make sure your solution reaches people: Market your solution effectively to reach the people who need it. The market doesn’t care about your passion; it cares about the value you provide.
Decide your path: Once your business is established, you have two options: continue growing it or sell it to cash out and pursue other ventures.
Delve into the wisdom imparted by MJ DeMarco in his books, “Millionaire Fast Lane” and “Unscripted,” to further illuminate the path to financial independence. Remember, the key lies in identifying and solving problems, not chasing money itself. Embrace the challenge, innovate, and watch your wealth flourish.
Navigating the world of career choices can be a daunting task for fresh graduates, with an abundance of options often leading to confusion and uncertainty.
However, amidst this sea of possibilities, sales jobs stand out as a unique and rewarding opportunity to develop a critical skillset that can propel individuals forward in any career path they choose.
Sales, in its essence, is the art of persuasion, communication, and problem-solving, skills that are universally valuable and applicable across industries.
Whether you aspire to become an entrepreneur, a CEO, or pursue any other professional endeavor, sales experience will serve as an invaluable foundation for your success.
In the dynamic realm of business, the ability to sell is paramount.
No matter how large your venture or how senior your position, you will always encounter situations that require you to effectively communicate, persuade, and close deals. This is why even presidents engage in sales and marketing efforts to promote their nations.
Sales jobs provide fresh graduates with a hands-on learning environment where they can hone their communication, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills.
By immersing yourself in the sales process, you will gain the confidence and resilience necessary to navigate the challenges of the professional world.
The process of sales is not merely about closing deals; it is about understanding the needs of clients, building relationships, and finding solutions that create mutual value.
These skills are not limited to the sales industry but are transferable to any profession, making sales experience a valuable asset in your career arsenal.
So, embrace the art of sales and embark on a journey of lifelong learning. With dedication and a positive attitude, you will acquire skills that can open doors to a fulfilling and successful career.
Remember, if you can handle sales, nothing can stop you from achieving your career goals.
Selling is the only role that cannot be fully delegated even if you are a CEO, president, or entrepreneur. This highlights the importance of sales skills and their ability to empower individuals to excel in any professional setting.
The BTI College team paid a courtesy visit to the CEO of Kenya National Entrepreneurs Savings Trust, Madam Rose Kwena (Centre).
Dr. Wolasa Tego, the executive chairman at BTI College, and Madam Najma Bishar, The General Manager at BTI Consultancy benefited from the treasure trove of experiences and wisdom shared by the CEO.
The BTI Executive Chairman is serving on the council of advisors for the National Treasury-based KNEST.
BTI College is yet again gearing up to hold its 5th Islamic Sacco Workshop of 2023.
Themed ‘Creation and Marketing of Islamic Sacco Products and Windows’, the workshop will be held at the Oceanside city of Mombasa.
The one-day workshop will take place at the Reef Hotel in Mombasa.
The topics to be tackled include Fundamentals of Islamic Finance, Liability Products in Islamic Sacco, Asset Products in Islamic Sacco, Creation of the Islamic Products and Windows in Islamic Sacco, Shariah Governance Framework, and Sales and Marketing of Islamic Sacco products.
The history of the Buruuj Training Institute (BTI) dates back to July 2006, when its predecessor, the TJ Computer College, commenced training in Sotik Town, Bomet County. In 2008, TJ computer college relocated to Nairobi.
