By Ratna Okhai, PhD Student, University of Central Florida
With 50-60% of the local government workforce within retirement age in the next five years, it comes as no surprise why both FCCMA and ICMA have undertaken programs and initiatives to bolster bringing up the next generation of leaders into local government. So how should local government managers attract and retain the next generation? And why should the next generation choose to make less and work in local government?
An amalgam of factors impact the talent pool today, and local governments leaders can do their part to increase the exposure the next generation has to local government. On the flip side, students interested in exploring local government work should take the initiative to get involved and learn. The variety of opportunities, great mentors, and a work-life balance unlike many private sector roles should serve as a guiding factor to bring in the next generation to local government.
The “Silver Tsunami” Impact and Mitigating Measures
In 2016, ahead of the FCCMA conference that year on “Preparing the Next Generation”, I wrote about the replacement gap of ready and willing ‘young’ people to replace retiring managers…this is the “silver tsunami”. In addition to the loss of an employee (an effect felt by every sector at the moment), the sustainability and continuation of institutional knowledge is at risk.
ICMA recognized this with the creation of the Next Generation Initiatives in 2003. This initiative provides some great tips on what local government leaders can do, with examples ranging from coaching to participation in the Fellows program, and even succession planning. FCCMA does its part to engage the inclusion of the next generation as well – with awards recognizing FCCMA members that strive to develop new talent in local government management and generous scholarships for FCCMA conference attendance.
I am very aware of the challenges faced by local government today—it’s not just financial but technological, infrastructure, and politics. The loss of seasoned leaders is an additional burden. An exhaustive list of methods to engage the next generation can be found on ICMA’s Next Generation Initiatives page, but below are a few that could be more easily implemented. Additionally, there are a couple initiatives provided for students to take advantage of.
Local Government Leader Initiatives
Project interns…Baby steps can be very valuable
So you have no budget for a full-time or even part-time intern? Consider involving students of public administration in your local universities and colleges through those projects gathering dust for when someone has time.
- There is tremendous value in small projects, whether its digitalizing building scans or updating policy documents through conversations with department heads.
- These manageable projects can provide your employees a sense of relief that the work is off their plate, and for students, it’s an achievable point for their resume, while creating a rapport with employees in local government.
Reach out…Your experiences can open eyes
I joined the newly-formed USF ICMA student chapter in 2015 that was the culmination of efforts of many professionals, but one in particular—Robert R. “Bobby” Green. Bobby has made it a point to engage with students with internship opportunities, an entire conference based on next generation leaders, and generally sound advice and mentorship.
- Reach out to your local university or college to engage with their Public Administration program
- Next generation employees want their organizations to care about more than just their work product—they want to see the value of their work. And what better way to show them than with decades of your experience that has proven the value of this work?
Money…The toughest challenge
To put in perspective, a 2017 article on CNBC found that from 1988 to 2017, the average cost of college per year rose from $3,190 to $9,970 (213% increase), while the dollar value of $100 in 1988 is $231.88 today (43%).
- More often than not, internship ‘opportunities’ want to provide the experience, but fail to account for the benefit that municipalities receive as a result of these students’ work.
- I’ve worked in a budget office and there’s (almost) always some funding to be found. It could be from a budgeted position that’s been vacant, or a project that was pushed back or even conference/professional development funds that were left over.
- Even $500 for a project intern could go a long way for students.
Student Initiatives
Join your local student chapter…Or build it if there isn’t one
It should go without saying, but if you’re interested in the profession, join the club! Joining your local ICMA student chapter will introduce you to the world of local government through a snapshot of experiences and like-minded connections.
- Most Florida universities have a student chapter (as well as some colleges)
- Being a member provides you the benefit of free conference registration for FCCMA and ICMA
- You’ll be exposed to managers and their experiences, which can springboard a conversation later.
Conferences…they’re not just for information
Sure, these conferences have costs associated with getting there, you may not understand how the sessions go, or you may not know anyone—but the growth opportunities are undeniable. While ICMA (International) is a great opportunity, it might be less cost-friendly for students. Conversely, FCCMA is a great local option.
- FCCMA conference, annually held around the first week of June in Orlando, has significantly reduced registration for students.
- There is often a half-day session on “So You Want To Be A City Manager?” targeting students and early professionals.
