By Rita R. Robison, Consumer Specialist, Blogging at The Survive and Thrive Boomer Guide

Guest Blogger

It’s not unusual these days for baby boomers to be working for younger bosses.

It’s a difficult situation, says Rachel Zupek, writing on CareerBuilder.com.

Today, it’s not uncommon for four generations – each with its own attitudes, perceptions, and values – to work side-by-side in the workplace. This sometimes makes it challenging for older workers to adapt.

It’s hard on boomers’ self esteem when younger bosses appear on the scene. In addition, younger generations tend to believe they have all the answers, and younger workers have a sense of urgency about the handling the latest challenge rather than reflecting on the best solution, according to Zupek’s article “Are You the Oldest Worker On the Team?”

Zupek offers these 10 tips to help you deal with adjusting to a younger boss:

1. Recognize that an important factor in managing any relationship is understanding the other person’s point of view.
2. Don’t assume traditional boss behaviors.
3. Never let ‘em see you sweat.
4. Keep an open mind.
5. Learn new things and look at things differently.
6. Use your experience to temper any potential insecurity about having a younger boss.
7. Help your boss get established.
8. Listen.
9. Spend time with your boss one on one.
10. Be the employee your boss doesn’t have to manage.

For additional tips on dealing with a younger boss, see:

“Younger Boss, Older Worker” — EmploymentDigest.net

“Bridge the Generation Gap with a Younger Boss” — Yahoo!hotjobs

“Meet the Young(er) Boss” — Christian Science Monitor

“Tips on How to Bridge the Generation Gap with Your Younger Boss” — Human Resource Solutions

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