New, Younger Boss Here Are 6 Ways to Make it Work

New, Younger Boss Here Are 6 Ways to Make it Work So, you just found outyur new anfhrer is significantly younger than you. A new boss usually means changes to the work environment, expectations, and different communication styles. But asignificant age difference can make these changes even more pronounced. It can be an odd dynamic, especially if you werent expecting it.What can you do to make koranvers you and your (super young) boss get off to the best possible start?1. Own your ReactionIts common these days to have multiple generations in the workplace. But when your boss is significantly younger than you, it can lead to negative emotions. A study by the Journal of Organizational Behavior foundthe average age differencesdetermine how frequently older subordinates and their coworkers experience negative emotionsThese emotion frequency levels, in turn, relate to company performance.You may tempted to question why yourcompany made the decision to hire or promote this younger person.Wh at does it say about your experience and how the company values your contributions?These questions are normal, so before you draw conclusions, acknowledge your reaction to the news. Its ok to feel this way. After you experience your emotions,ask yourself why its bothering you. Is this a job you wanted? Are you afraid your boss doesnt have the experience to lead well?If you are uncomfortable for one of these reasons, give your new boss some time. They will likely answer these questions. If you realize youre only upset because of your ego, take a minute to consider changing your feelings toward this change. You have the ability to make an impact on your own thoughts.2. Acknowledge the Elephant in the RoomYoure probably not the only one feeling awkward about the situation. In fact, your boss may have similar feelings. If you feel the tension, talk about it. You can make a joke about the strange relationship, but address it so it doesnt impact you and your teamsability to be successful. You can see this conversation asan opportunity to build strong communication with your new boss.3. Set ExpectationsAsk your boss how they work best.Do they respond to texts or emails first,or would they prefer a call?Are they a morning person, or do they prefer to stay late to finish a project? Setting expectations about work habits early in the relationship can alleviate potential miscommunication.It also helps to know how to reach your boss quickly if issues arise.4. Share your KnowledgeBe confident in what you bring to the team.Your experience gives you insight into situations your boss may not have been exposedto yet.Share the knowledge youve gained in your years of working.This puts you in a position to be your bossstrusted resource.The more your boss understands your knowledge and abilities, the more opportunities you will have for your own growth.5. Keep an Open MindJust because someone is younger doesnt meanyou cant learn from them. According to Harvard Business School Pres s Geeks and Geezers, The one key asset that our leaders share, whether young or old, is their adaptive capacity. The ability to process new experience and find their meaning and to integrate them in to ones life is the signature skill of leaders.Consider how your new boss was able to rise to this point in their career. Whats the key skill they have that couldhelp you be more successful? It may be management skills, something technical, or how to navigate the corporate environment.Regardless of what positive quality of theirs you settle on, be sure to keep an open mind. Youll learn more than you mightve expected.6. Build your NetworkUse this new experience to build your network. Ask contacts if theyve had a similar experience, and use their knowledge asadditional support tonavigate the relationship with your new boss. Theres a chance itwont work outwith a new boss, regardless of their age. Building strong communication in your network can help you find new opportunities with other co mpanies if you need to move on.In the end, a new boss regardless of age will change your work environment. The key to managing this change is open communication and building trust.Focus on what you want to accomplish and how you can work with your new team to get there together.