By Kevin Eikenberry Article
My Entire Team is Older Than Me!
“Younger leaders, often in their first leadership role, are concerned about leading those older than they are, possibly people who trained them. They wonder how they will be able to lead successfully and gain respect. More often than not what people asking this question are searching for more than a technique; it’s really a search for confidence.
With that backdrop, let me share five strategies that will help you if you are in this situation (or coaching someone who is):
Recognize the issue may be yours.
When people ask about this issue, I typically ask what behaviors are causing a problem. Often I receive a quizzical look in return. Why? Because sometimes there isn’t an issue from the older person at all. Perhaps you are making a mountain out of a mole hill. Perhaps your issue is more about your own competence, and the challenge is mostly about you. Perhaps what is seen by you as an issue is simply someone getting used to a new leader – regardless of his/her age.
Talk about it.
Whether the age issue is real or perceived, yours or theirs, it is worth talking about. Left un-discussed it can become the elephant in the room causing miscommunication and misunderstanding. Bring up the topic with the individuals or group you lead. ….” – Article
