RIMS' (Risk and Insurance Management Society) latest newsletter includes an interview with Rebecca Ryan, founder of Next Generation Consulting. Check out her thoughts on younger generations breaking into the industry.
Q. Most risk managers of generations past fell into the field accidentally and learned as they went. Today, students are preparing for and actively choosing the profession. Can you speak to any implications this may have for the future of the industry?
A. This probably means that the next generation will come in a bit better versed in what to expect, and they may ask MORE from managers than they're comfortable with. It may be a bit like going to the doctor my Mom's generation (she's 84) doesn't question the doctor. Later generations do their research BEFORE their appointments, and sometimes know more than the doctor does. Doctors today have to be better than in the past for this reason. Same with managing people who are prepared for the profession: you have to be ready to step up as a manager and lead at a higher level.
Q. Most risk managers of generations past fell into the field accidentally and learned as they went. Today, students are preparing for and actively choosing the profession. Can you speak to any implications this may have for the future of the industry?
A. This probably means that the next generation will come in a bit better versed in what to expect, and they may ask MORE from managers than they're comfortable with. It may be a bit like going to the doctor my Mom's generation (she's 84) doesn't question the doctor. Later generations do their research BEFORE their appointments, and sometimes know more than the doctor does. Doctors today have to be better than in the past for this reason. Same with managing people who are prepared for the profession: you have to be ready to step up as a manager and lead at a higher level.