Keep pace with your tech-savvy workmates
Don’t ask me how long I want to keep working. Don’t even try it in a roundabout way that you think is subtle. Whether I’m still working because I need the money or because not working is boring for me or because I like the company of my co-workers or because I’m savingng up to buy a flat in Paris when I retire or just because I can, my reasons for working are much the same as anyone else’s. Do avoid sending me motivational messages. Especially the ones about how you’re only as old you feel. Also, don’t feel obligated to celebrate my birthday. Try to understand, if I don’t get wildly excited about your terrific, ingenious, innovative brilliant, novel idea that, more likely than not, I’ve been there, done that – probably many times. However, I will try not to say so – or even hint that your idea actually qualifies for a senior discount. Appreciate the upside of having someone older as an employee: no calls from the school nurse about a child being sent home with lice, no crisis with the nanny, no unbridled ambition to take over your job.
And, since respect is a two-way street, here are ways older workers should interact with a younger boss: Listen carefully and with an open mind. Be polite and well-mannered; this means no eye-rolling, smirking or looking bored during meetings – and, of course, being on time and not interrupting. Offer support and encouragement, not skepticism or squelching. Follow up on what she asks you to do and what you’re expected to do. Be constructive and positive, even when your experience tells you it ain’t gonna work; instead, reframe your negative outlook in a way that’s helpful. If your workplace is chock full of gadget-laden millennials, you’ll want to avoid the perception that you’re a clued-out older web surfer. Here are a few tactics that might help.