Managing Older Employees as a Young Director
Hi WSO,
I recently joined a new middle market IB group as a Director and I won’t share my exact age but I’m by far the youngest Director the group has had and maybe even in company history.
Basically while I get along very well with my boss and fellow directors, I’ve noticed that many of the VP’s and Associates don’t treat me with the authority my position calls for and see me in a different light as I’m significantly younger than them. Through one of my buddies at the company I heard that behind my back many of them were talking one day about how they didn’t know how to respect a Director of my age.
Although I’m still very early into my tenure with this group and no substantial issues have arose, I’d like to know how I can take initiative to prevent any major problems from occurring. I feel that many of their perceptions may take place due to jealousy among other things but I want to figure out a way to get through to them without simply using my authority card.
Thanks for the help!
I had older staff report into me once, it wasn't easy. Authority and respect sometimes have attachment to seniority and age as well.
Be as professional as possible, and guide staff in the best way. Make sure the team comes first, especially with staff who have a lot of experience.
It’s hard to find a perfect way for this.
Part of it could be going a bit “above and beyond” in demonstrating to your team that there is a reason that you are a director. I.e. despite your age you know & understand what the rest of the team is doing & that you are bringing more to the table.
try to make sure to not fall in the trap of “giving a hand” as that will make they perceive you as more junior than you are.
I just think the best way to manage that is to be professional, do your job as a director and trust them (but with oversight) on their job
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