Connecting with younger coworkers?
I just moved from Kansas City to SW Florida to take a job, and not only am I in a new environment culturally, but all of my coworkers are 10-15 years younger than me. It seems like every time I open my mouth I say something awkward. And the harder I try, the more awkward I become. I’m starting to get very frustrated.
This is the first time in well, ever, that I can think of, that I’ve been in this situation, with zero co-workers in my age group or older.
I am well-traveled, so I have not lived an insulated life. And I feel like I am young at heart. I get along great with my millennial son, but we have a mutual love of sci-fi and superheroes, but neither topic is something that most women want to chat about either, unfortunately. So I’m really having a hard time connecting.
I would love to have any advice.
Jillian Knapp
Educator, Storyteller, Lifeline
918
09/13/20 at 7:09PM UTC
Hi Anonymous. Throughout my life/ career I’ve been in situations of being both the youngest and the oldest in my work situations. Every situation is unique, but my best advice is to be curious about them. Find their “pain points”. One thing I’ve learned is that every generation appreciates a good listener, someone who genuinely cares, and someone that will ask them questions. It sounds like you have a lot to offer and as you discover things about them you’ll be able meet them where they are at and they will be glad to have known you.
Kelly ParkAdmin Pro/Recent College Graduate
13
09/13/20 at 5:28PM UTC
I recently graduated from college at the age of 50...I know what it feels like being the oldest person in the room. I was often asked if I was the professor. All that to say, I was always older than most of my coworkers (I worked part-time on campus) and fellow students and many professors. I think I would stop trying harder and let the relationships evolve naturally. Are you on the social app TikTok? If you aren't - I suggest checking it out.. even if you never post you can follow content creators from your area to get the "vibe" of your new location.
