How to lead people older than you
These days it’s increasingly common for a young, up and coming leader to oversee people 10 to 20 years older than them, some of whom also have more experience.
Significant age differences like this can cause some tension on both sides.
Just the other day, I was speaking to a new leader from the community who is going through this exact scenario, and he felt helpless and frustrated as he didn’t know how to confront his senior staff who wasn’t performing to expectations.
To help this new leader, I did some research and looked back at my own experiences. Here are a few things you can keep in mind if you’ve been recently promoted to lead an older and more experienced team than you.ere are a few things you can keep in mind if you’ve been recently promoted to lead an older and more experienced team than you.
1. Adopt a humble and respectful mindset
As expected, people who have been working at a company longer than you are going to be hypersensitive to any signs of power and privilege. Acknowledge that you are not the smartest person in the room and you truly value their knowledge and experience to help you navigate your new responsibilities. Humble yourself and admit you don’t have all the answers. Be open to ask them for help and be willing to incorporate their good ideas.
2. Set expectations
One-on-one sessions are great for understanding your employee’s hopes and frustrations. They need to know that you’re listening to them and their input contributes to the prosperity of the company. Then clearly lay out what they can expect from you and what you’re expecting from them. Set mutually acceptable goals, give support and show interest in their success.
3. Stand firm
In some instances, an older employee may challenge your leadership. When that happens, stand your ground in a respectful manner. Don’t let them push you around. Remind yourself that management put you there for a reason, and drum up the courage to act with resolve on what is right for the wellbeing of the team and the company. Be decisive as wishy-washiness will not garner respect.
4. Find co-leaders
Look for exemplary senior members in the team and win them over. As they’ve been with the company for a while and are trusted by the other colleagues, they can be your early adopters and supporters and can reason out your directions and decisions with the other team members.
5. Get to know who they really are
Make an effort to know your team members on a personal level. Go out for meals with them and join their social activities. Make it clear that you are in it for the long haul and are not just using your leadership role as a stepping-stone to your next promotion.
The people you lead, whether they are younger, older or have more experience, do not care how much you know until they know how much you care. Show your team members that you care about them, and turn a difficult situation into a positive one for everyone. ●