How Do I Lead People Older Than Me?

How Do I Lead People Older Than Me?

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[ThomasBomb]

I was taught that a title gives you authority, while earning respect gives you power. Authority is just a piece of paper saying you're in charge, but actually being able to lead requires a lot of interpersonal skills

[xAaronnnnn]

Actual advice that I haven't heard before! Great question

[austinpatrick]

You only have to practice one word... Respect. When it's genuine it bridges all age gaps.

[tucky]

Leadership is about being a servant to your team. Think of others first and you will be fine. People will want to follow you.

[mxerb]

I was also in that same position straight out of college and had to manage people twice my age. They will resent you at first and if you’re arrogant it will never go away. Just stay humble and you win most of them over not all but most

Oh and you’ll never be perfect at it and it takes a lifetime to master.

[graceandglamor]

Step 1.) have a voice like Chris Hogan

Step 2.) there is no step 2

[retiredmanager]

How do you lead people that are older?
1) talk to them in a team meeting, set expectations.

2) Talk to them as individuals. Some need guidance, some don’t.

3) Don’t micro-manage the group, coach those that need coaching.

4) Don’t look at age, many older people are just graduating college. Age doesn’t equal knowledge.

5) Remember a college degree just means someone is educated, it doesn’t mean they are smart or hard working.

[Ketchup]

Chris was frothing at the mouth to answer that question!😂

[objective_evaluation]

I’ve been there, blessed to lead people in a corporate environment at age 27. It’s not easy to start but don’t worry. Lead by example and trust the input of your team. Your team has experience that can power the ship, it’s your job to help create a vision of where you could go. If your a young leader now, you’ll continue to be a young leader for years to come but that’s ok, you’ll learn how to influence and pull your team along on the journey. Be authentic, ask your team for their recommendations and find a mentor. Best of luck, I’m sure you’ll do great.

[jill]

I really respect him for asking this question

[random-nzdy]

Great question.

Confidence is very important. And at the same time it's important to maintain respect for your co-workers, acknowledge their experience and exactly what Dave said. Don't just boss them around, have conversations with them where you share ideas but don't be lacking confidence to step up and Lead.

Rafael Nadal and Rodger Federer could destroy their coaches if they played them at tennis. But they still have coaches. They still have somebody who helps to lead them to develop their game effecitvely.

Everybody knows that the coach in that situation doesn't have nearly the experience of playing against professionals that the player does but it doesn't mean that they cant be a good coach.

And yes leadership has to be earned.

[Je.rone_]

I'm 23 and I'm a manager as well, everyone ifrs older than me, but I generally don't think about the age of my coworkers as far as how i go about dealing with matters, albeit it helps sel my coworkers are just as qualified for my job as i am

[AshknFX]

Today was my 1st day as HOD teacher. Born in 94 and other teachers were born early 70s. Definitely a challenge because u wanna respect them as much without sacrificing ur role

[saelaird]

I've always managed older people, be valm, composed, humble and they'll follow.

[faithhernadez]

Love this. I took a role at 22 managing 48 teams across TX with most being double my age. I learned how to do just this and always follow “be there with them not at them”. Not long after I have the strongest relationships with those who have been veterans in the business the longest. Age is irrelevant when you know how to be a good LEADER, not boss.

[jamescadzow]

To get the most out of your staff be the most productive leader and hardest worker that they've ever experienced. They will subconsciously copy your behavioral patterns and mindset without words spoken.

[midnightmonkey]

Im 28, the youngest director level in my company, pretty much in the exact same position as the caller. The advice is definitely on point. One thing that may creep into the picture is imposter syndrome, but always remember that you were hired for a reason. Stay close to your own superior and maintain your confidence, otherwise you will be in your head a lot.

[krhervey]

Yes, they speaking nothing but the truth and also you have to show them if can't understand. People need to work side by side.

[AnishChari]

I have a similar role, leading people that are old enough to be my mother.

Key thing is when you're new get lots of input from the group, ask what they think works for a particular situation, then follow up regularly and ask how it's working.

[hollymurphy]

I have had several people under me in the past. Youngest starting when I was 17 and my coworkers have been ages 30-65. I had a lot of issues with them not respecting or listening to me even tho I was their manager. Good thing I have a pretty straight forward personality. But it’s hard and annoying when people thing just because they are closer to death they can control you 😒