The Etiquette When Your Boss Is Younger Than You

By R S Ali | Apr 06, 2016 11:34 AM EDT

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When your boss is younger than you are, it is easy to forget that he/she is your boss. Monster suggests some things to always keep in mind when you are older than the manager.

1. Be respectful

Do remember that despite their age, they must have qualifications or skills over you that make them higher than you in the food chain. If you give respect, you'll get respect.

Be courteous, especially when you are having a disagreement. Don't call them 'son' or 'buddy'.

2. Be open minded

Be flexible and cooperative. Don't just make you mind up about age being a big factor in chain of command. Maybe age has nothing to do with being capable. Try to think outside the box, don't be clichéd!

His/her age might also affect how they work, so if they email or text a lot, don't judge and avoid making a fuss unless it really is an issue.

Judging them will only make you look old. Try to align yourself with their style - it will only benefit you. Who knows, you might even learn a thing or two!

Remember that age does not matter in the grand scheme of things.

Age really is just a number Don't let his/her age get in the way. Instead, focus on the things that really matter. Is your boss good at leading? Does he/she get the work done? Are they motivating? Do they know their stuff?

The aim is to work as a team and achieve the group goals you all have. As long as the boss is managing to get that done, you shouldn't have a problem.

3. Learn to communicate

You need to be on the same page as your boss, so learn to communicate with them effectively. Effective communication that conveys what you need is half the work, if not more.

Ask them their preferred method of communication so you build trust and maximize performance.

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