Human-Centered Leadership: The Key to Engaging Generations Y and Z

Modern management system in general and HR management in particular require new approaches focused on the individual. Human-centered leadership is such an approach as far as it enables the achievement of a company's strategic goals, on the one hand, and creates conditions for employee engagement in the production process, on the other. Given the current situation in the labour market, retaining and engaging young people are becoming especially important for employers. The article analyzes the essence of human-centered approach and presents its key principles. Particular attention is paid to human-centered leadership as a leadership style in which people are a priority. We have analyzed the challenges faced by managers in HR management, identified a connection between human-centered leadership and employee engagement among Generations Y and Z. The practical section of the article presents the results of a study conducted at an Irkutsk enterprise. Based on survey data, we have identified the key engagement challenges for Generations Y and Z: lack of career growth, insufficient feedback, and low levels of concern for employees. It is concluded that traditional management approaches are inferior to human-centered leadership in terms of effectiveness in working with young employees. The article emphasizes that implementation of human-centered practices in the conditions of a demographic crisis and talent shortage is becoming a strategic necessity for companies seeking to remain competitive in the labour market. The study's findings may be useful to HR professionals and executives focused on modern HR management practices.