Exploring Millennial Leadership Development: A Rapid Evidence Assessment of Information Communication Technology and Reverse Mentoring Competencies

Building organizations that promote innovative leadership development require forward-thinking direction from the upper-most levels of an organization. Currently, many executives adhere to the tenets of a traditional model which develops leaders who serve the organizational goals. An essential element of a firm’s competitiveness is the ability to attract, retain, and develop high potential employees. In reviewing primary literature, this paper focuses on empirical studies that respond to the research question, how can managers use innovator competencies to affect developing innovative Millennial leaders? A rapid evidence assessment (REA) offers a methodology for quickly gathering and assessing evidence to determine the need for future research. Based on evidence from a REA of 11 primary studies, the review suggests that information computer technology (ICT) and reverse mentoring promote horizontal competency development. Additionally, the research indicates that ICT and reverse mentoring encourage vertical or the stages of leadership competency development that influence innovation. In combining Prahalad and Hamel’s (1990) theory of a firm’s core competency with Howe and Strauss’ (2007) generational cohort theory, this study offers insights for organizational leaders in developing the future innovator workforce leaders. Implications presented of ICT and reverse mentoring for Millennials in today’s competitive organizational environment serve to bridge the gap between needed leadership competencies and building these needed innovator skills in this cohort. With findings that suggest that generational characteristics are associated with ICT and reverse mentoring, this review contributes to theory by extending the understanding of organizational innovation through developing Millennial leader competencies. Future research should investigate how other competencies factor to position organizations to develop a more strategic and innovative workforce.