Bringing new people into your organization can change your business for the better. It’s easy to evaluate candidates and choose individuals with relevant work history, but this practice does not help to bring new ideas into your business. Consider selecting a leader with a different background than you would normally consider. Individuals with different experiences will help your company to be more innovative and stay ahead of the pack. One way to diversify your company is to hire from a variety of age groups.
Todd Taylor, Partner at Heidrick & Struggles, an executive search firm, explains, “‘For the first time ever, we are soon going to have four generational cohort groups working at the same time. People from Gen X, Gen-Y and very soon a new cohort of post-Millenials each interact and network very differently than Baby Boomers…’” With all of the different generations working together in one company, mentorships will prove to be imperative. Experienced employees have a wealth of knowledge to offer new hires, and new employees are full of fresh ideas that they can’t wait to share—both can benefit from this relationship.
This video is contributed by Heidrick & Struggles, a global executive search firm headquartered in Chicago. It specializes in executive search services, executive leadership consulting, and culture shaping.
Gresham W. Harkless Jr.https://iamgresh.comGresham W. Harkless Jr.
Franchise Broker & Entrepreneur | Founder, Blue Star Franchise
Helping founders and aspiring owners find franchise opportunities that match their purpose, finances, and lifestyle. Host of the I AM CEO Podcast with more than 1,600 interviews.
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About Gresham W. Harkless Jr.
Gresham W. Harkless Jr. is a seasoned entrepreneur and franchise broker based in the Washington, D.C. metro area. As founder of Blue Star Franchise, he helps aspiring and established business owners discover franchise opportunities aligned with their goals, skills, and long-term vision.
With over 15 years of experience in entrepreneurship, digital marketing, and business development, Gresham brings a consultative, client-first approach to franchise matching. Through his media company, Blue 16 Media, and the I AM CEO Podcast, which has featured more than 1,600 interviews, he has worked with hundreds of CEOs, founders, and small business owners to accelerate growth and build scalable business models.
His mission is simple: to help people “run their race” by finding franchise opportunities that align with their purpose, skills, and lifestyle.
Credentials & Affiliations
Certified Franchise Broker - Franchise Broker Association (FBA)
Founder - Blue Star Franchise
Founder - Blue 16 Media
Host - I AM CEO Podcast (1,600+ episodes)
Featured in 50+ Black Marketers on the Rise & Influencer & Media Innovators (2022)
B.S., Business Administration - Howard University
How Gresham Helps
Franchise discovery & matching consultations
Franchise investment and financial fit analysis
Franchise development guidance & onboarding support
Speaking engagements & media interviews
Business growth advisory through Blue 16 Media
I AM CEO Podcast
With more than 1,600 episodes, the I AM CEO Podcast features conversations with founders, franchise owners, authors, and business leaders.
Gresham shares real, actionable insights to help entrepreneurs grow, scale, and lead.
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Contact & Bookings
Email: gresham@bluestarfranchise.com
For franchise inquiries, speaking engagements, or media interviews, send an email or use the consultation link.
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