Gwangju Nambu Fire Department Strengthens Intergenerational Communication with 'Reverse Mentoring' Program

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Park Jin-hyung] On the 28th, the Gwangju Nambu Fire Station announced that it conducted reverse mentoring to improve organizational culture between generations and to facilitate smooth communication and emotional empathy.

'Reverse mentoring' is a communication method that is the exact opposite of traditional mentoring where seniors teach juniors. In this approach, the younger generation acts as mentors, sharing their youthful sensibilities, values, and culture with senior managers, and experiencing these together.

The reverse mentoring session held that day included a healing time in the forest, embracing nature such as forest therapy. The mentors took the lead in selecting the topics, locations, and formats of the meetings, allowing free discussion to share values between generations and improve proper workplace culture and awareness.

Employees who participated in the reverse mentoring said, "We never had opportunities to communicate face-to-face, so it was good to have time to talk," and added, "We hope such communication opportunities continue frequently to narrow the generational gap in thinking and help the fire organization develop into a healthier organization."