How do you ace a job interview with a boss who’s youthful than you? In the event you’re interviewing for a job and also you’re over 50 . . . and even 40, there’s a very good probability you’ll end up on this state of affairs. Right here’s how one can make an ideal impression–together with how one can reply the “How do you are feeling about having a boss that’s youthful than you” interview query–and get the job.
- Begin with rapport.
Rapport – that comfy feeling that you just’re “on the identical wavelength” – is essential in any interview, particularly while you and the interviewer belong to totally different generations.
How are you going to kickstart that rapport? One straightforward approach is by subtly mirroring the interviewer’s physique language and vitality degree. Nice small speak can also be important. Ask a protected query like “How’s your day going thus far?” and sincerely, actively hearken to the reply.
- Respect their experience.
Listening is essential all through any interview, however particularly with a youthful supervisor, who might fear about whether or not you’ll respect their viewpoints, expertise and authority. Hear actively, by no means interrupt, and ask good questions to point out you’re concerned about their perspective.
Notice that it’s simpler to point out respect should you really really feel it. Analysis the boss and see what you’ll find to respect and admire.
- Don’t go into “trainer” mode.
You do want to point out you will have concepts and know-how, however maintain it temporary. No long-winded lectures. In the event you supply a suggestion, phrase it very tactfully, utilizing language like “One factor you may wish to check is…”
- Don’t name consideration to age variations.
Whenever you’re interviewing with somebody youthful, keep away from feedback like “I suppose this dates me, however…” or references to “youthful individuals like your self.” Going out of your strategy to level out your age – or worse, the interviewer’s – will distract from what’s related. Worse, it may possibly simply come throughout as patronizing, no matter your intentions.
- Discuss current expertise.
What you’ve accomplished within the final 5 years is extra attention-grabbing than outdated expertise, particularly to a youthful interviewer. However should you should point out an essential accomplishment that occurred a few years in the past, don’t point out the yr until it’s needed.
- Be ready to reply the query “How do you are feeling about having a boss that’s youthful than you?”
In fact you’ll say you welcome it, however be sure to sound whole-hearted about it. Saying “It’s positive if they’ve the {qualifications}” sounds such as you’re already questioning their talents. An announcement like that is extra optimistic: “Age isn’t an element; if somebody is my supervisor I’m going to respect that and observe their course.” You may additionally point out the statistic I consult with within the subsequent paragraph.
- Notice that you just’ll very seemingly get pleasure from working with a youthful boss. Surveys have proven {that a} majority of staff over 50 now work for bosses youthful than them, and that almost all of them are proud of it. Preserve an open thoughts.
Bonus Ideas: Be ready to tackle the notion that you could be be overqualified. And whereas we’re speaking about interviewing with individuals youthful than you, you might wish to learn my put up, “How one can Interview with Potential Direct Stories.”
Interviewing with a youthful boss doesn’t must be awkward. Following the guidelines above will help you set your self and the interviewer comfortable. Then you definitely’re each free to concentrate on the wealth of expertise and worth you’ll be able to convey to the job. (This put up has been up to date in 2025.)
