Am I too young to be this person’s boss?

Dear Aunty B,

I’ve just been appointed to a management role. I will now be in charge of staff which includes one lady who is about 10 years older than me. She is a lot more experienced than I am and I am worried that she will resent me for being her boss. I’m not quite sure how to deal with her.

James,

Elwood

Dear James,

Just because this lady is 10 years older than you she’s not from a different planet! It sounds like the problem is more yours than hers.

You feel strange managing people who have been working longer than you. You need to get rid of any self-doubt from your mind. Tell yourself that there is a reason you have been appointed manager. If you are awkward or you avoid dealing with her, it will make her awkward as well. If you just treat her like everyone else, it’s more likely she will see this as a non-issue.

Even if it still feels strange, remember the great saying – fake it till you make it. Do your job, don’t get stressed about the age and experience difference, and hopefully things will run smoothly.

Be smart,

Your Aunty B

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