RL Blogs
By Steve Pagani
Jul 29, 2013Tips on managing refinery employees who represent varying age demographics |
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Upwards
Being the young supervisor and directing employees that are your senior in age and experience can be quite a challenge. Gaining the respect of a senior employee and reaching a point where they are open to receiving your feedback can take some time. That is the reason why patience is the key.
Don’t expect to step right into your position and have the senior members of the group fall right in line behind you. Win their respect with your abilities and don’t just expect it with your title. And winning their respect usually means giving them the respect they deserve.
Don’t think that the younger folks are the only ones that need to be exposed to different areas and new things. Many times the new is very necessary for the old.
Downwards
Having younger direct reports is a different type of challenge but a challenge none the less. Younger members of the group are typically out to prove themselves and looking for greater responsibilities.
situations and wait for them to seek help before rushing in yourself. The additional responsibility and challenge will not only be more rewarding for the younger employees but will also help develop them for the future.
Also be open to new ideas from your younger employees. This is one of the most valuable skills they bring. Don’t shoot holes through these ideas but let your direct report work through the issues and present the benefits and risks. This will not only make the younger members of your team feel valued but the new perspective will often help develop great new ideas.
Understand the strengths and weaknesses of each of your employees regardless of age and use that knowledge to utilize and develop all the members of your group. Remove obstacles for the group and listen to the concerns they raise. Whether you’re managing upwards or downwards in age, the key is respect. | ||||||
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