The world is changing so fast. Opportunities are open to everyone that even young people are getting their big breaks as early as their early twenties. As for our respected baby boomers, with the technology right now, they can take advantage of the remote working opportunities ahead.

The problem is, different generations most likely have different point of views and ways of handling things. How can you maintain a harmonious relationship if you have conflicting tendencies with your younger boss? 

With that, here are 7 tips for maintaining a harmonious relationship while working with your younger boss.

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Assume Your Boss is Qualified for the Job

You may think that you may have more experience because of your life years, but your boss is appointed in his/her position because of his/her qualifications. 

We all have our strengths and weaknesses. It’s best to assume that your boss was hired because of his/her strengths. You can give suggestions but make sure you don’t look down on your younger boss just because of age.

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Do Not Bring Up Your Superiority Because of Age

On the other hand, you may be better than your boss in some ways. But you don’t have to say it. You are there to produce results, not to show off who should be at the top spot.

Avoid phrases like: “when I was your age,” “this is how we do it since then,” “I was working while you were not yet born,” or similar expressions to avoid conflict.

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Check Yourself

Sometimes, our attitude towards other people is a manifestation of our conflicts inside us. 

Check yourself. Are you having ego or pride issues? Are you envious of his/her achievements at his/her age? You need to deal with your issues so that you can work harmoniously together.

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Be Empathetic

Try to wear the shoes of your younger superior. S/he might be intimated just be handling you. Be empathetic and respect your boss. 

Listen to what s/he is saying and understand that most people want the best outcome for the team. 

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Allow Them to Learn From You

There is no denying it. You might have the most experience in the team. Feel free to give your ideas when the team needs it. Most young leaders crave for learning. Give your advice when they need it. 

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Have a Learning Attitude

On the other hand, there is a saying: “you can’t teach old dogs new tricks.” This might be true to some extent, but I say to you, it’s a choice. Instead of rejecting ideas because “it is how we do it back then,” have a learning attitude to adapt with the changing times.

You can always bring up your input, but be ready to accept that the times are changing. You need to be flexible to be competent.

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Talk About It

If you feel there is a rift between you and your younger boss, try to talk about it. You don’t want a tense relationship in your virtual workplace. Communication can go a long way.

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It All Boils Down to Results

At the end of the day, the results speak for themselves. It doesn’t matter if you are young or old. It’s what you can create with all your talents and efforts combined in one.

So have respect for each other. Cheers to creating a harmonious relationship in your freelance project.