How to deal with working for a younger boss

Having a younger boss might seem intimidating, but these three tips can help you turn a potentially uncomfortable situation into a positive one.

Finding out your new boss is younger than you is a situation that might make many employees feel uncomfortable.

But while it may be unsettling at first, there are some things you can do to make working alongside your younger employer work – for both of you.

Here are three tips that could help.

1. DON’T UNDERMINE YOUR BOSS

Entrepreneur Daniel Clark said while older people may be apprehensive and defensive about having a younger boss due to their years of experience in the workforce, they need to remain open minded.

He added that younger people are easy going and can bring a new fresh perspective on how to get things done.

“My advice to the older people would be not to undermine them [younger people],” he told news.com.au.

He also advised older workers to leave their assumptions at the door.

“Don’t assume that you’re going to be correct. Give your perspective because it’s always going to be useful, but just do it in a polite way.”

And, despite how you may feel about their age or experience, you also need to respect that your younger boss is in charge.

“If they do make a decision, don’t try and unravel it for no reason. Don’t undermine the younger staff because it can be a bad quality to assume that you’re right.”

Entrepreneur Daniel Clark. Picture: Supplied

2. DON’T QUIT, COMMUNICATE

The 27-year-old boss said quitting if your new boss is younger than you is not the answer. Instead, he encourages older workers to embrace the change.

“You have to recognise that there’s a younger team bringing a new perspective, bringing fresh ideas,” he said.

If you’re finding the change unsettling, he recommends discussing it.

“You have to really communicate clearly, let the management team know how you’re feeling.

“In any workplace you’re going find people that have different opinions and different perspectives whether it’s age, race or years of experience in the field. It’s always going to be different.

“I’d say, don’t give up, just embrace the change and see where it takes you.”

Don’t quit your job and embrace the change. Picture: iStock

3. UPSKILL TO STAY CURRENT

Mr Clark said older workers who may be uncomfortable with a younger boss may find it useful to upskill, particularly when it comes to technological changes.

Staying up to date with skills and trying to learn to be a team player is a big one.

“Tech doesn’t stay current for very long. Everything’s always changing and it’s changing very rapidly, especially over the last 10 or so years,” he said.

“Staying up to date on all tech is such a crucial part.”

He recommends having a conversation with your boss about the common goals you and the company share and pointing out the benefits of upskilling.

“Go in with a positive attitude, share the goals and the benefits and then it just makes sense for the company to have it,” he said.

“Because it also shows that the employee is a little bit more dedicated to the company, if they’re trying to get certain skills that help that company grow as well.”