Managing elder subordinates: 5 ice tips

My subordinates are very experienced and olderunderstands them is more liked than a person
than me . How do I control them? Ramesh askedwho is indifferent to them and demands work
me. He was just 26 and working in a managerialwithout consideration.
position in a multinational company.3. Value the experience.
Ramesh's problem is not isolated. Many a times,Many times the experience of an employee can
young managers feel unhappy and embarrassedbe useful in handling situations. You as a manager
by elder subordinates. This results in totalcan get their opinion about the problem at hand
dissatisfaction of the employee and also bad workand try to improvise on the solution. Also
atmosphere. But you can avoid this by followingdiscussions with elders valuing their opinions will be
the five principles given below.very much helpful to you in maintain a relationship.
1. Be soft but firm.4. Give them the pride by delegating.
Elders often get irritated by a harsh tone from aAfter some time you get a feel of the capabilities
young manager. But you can be conveying theand limitations of each. If you find a subordinate
same feelings in a calm voice. This will not hurtcapable you can make him feel a position by
him.delegating important work to him. Only thing is
For example for a late coming person, thethat he should not have a feeling that you are
question "why are you late today?" can be put indelegating because of your incapability.
many ways some of which hurting and some5. Keep your cool.
very gentle but firm.In spite of all these, if you find that the situation is
2. Try to understand their problems.tense or unpleasing, try to keep your cool and
Elders may have many problems which mayhandle it. It may even be better to leave it as it is
seem irrelevant to you. This may include healthfor some time before you handle it.
related problems, family matters etc. A boss who