One of my bosses is in his mid-80s.

Anonymous

November 30,2022 at 1:24AM UTC

Welcome to Fairygodboss!

We’re the largest online career community helping women achieve their career goals. Gain access to articles, jobs, events, and a supportive network of women and allies. Membership is free, always.

One of my bosses is in his mid-80s. He has had a very long and successful career and he is currently reaching the point where he will retire soon. He is still very sharp and he works hard. A few people in our office have made snide remarks to me about how he shouldn’t even be working and he needs to retire. From what I understand, the company does not want him to retire sooner than he intends because he has a very strong client base and his initial plan of succession did not go as planned.

Is there a firm, but professional way I can respond to this to essentially tell them to knock it off? Of course he will not work forever, but I think it’s inappropriate and rude for any of us to be remarking about this.

Why women love us:

Daily articles on career topics
Jobs at companies dedicated to hiring more women
Advice and support from an authentic community
Events that help you level up in your career
Free membership, always

3 comments

Share your insight

Join an authentic community that helps women support each other at work. Share your professional experience or ask for advice — you can even post anonymously.

3 Comments

Join the conversation

Karen TaylorNovember 30,2022 at 1:46PM UTC
Possibly respond that the man has earned his place at the company and with as many years of experience he has, he also has a vast range of knowledge, from which the other employees can learn to emulate his success. Sounds like the man in his 80's could be a great mentor, especially if the company appreciates his work and knowledge so much.
Heather CutlerDecember 1,2022 at 1:56PM UTC
You’re only responsible for yourself. You’re simply not on deck to manage other people’s reactions or salty comments about this man. You’re also not expected to defend or explain his retirement schedule. Not your problem.
You can however, choose to assert your own boundaries when criticism arises. Don’t participate in the conversations, walk away and don’t validate and of these other gossipy comments.
AnonymousDecember 19,2022 at 3:29PM UTC
I'm not sure that engaging in the conversation is the best way to handle this, but if asked directly with no way to not answer, you might say something like, "when I'm 80 years old, I hope to have just half his energy, knowledge, and stamina. He is sharp, productive, and has the respect of his client base, so I don't understand the problem."