Bridge work generation gap with younger boss

One of the latest challenges for 50-plus workers is figuring out how to work effectively _and_ happily for a boss who is younger. Many of us these days already do, or we will. As more

boomers push back retirement dates, and working part time in retirement becomes a pillar of retirement plans, this generational swing dance is taking place in small and large businesses

across the country. A September 2012 survey by the jobs website CareerBuilder found that one-third of U.S. employees reported working for someone younger. Fifteen percent said their boss was

at least 10 years younger. While most workers said it wasn't difficult to work for a younger boss, differences in work styles and communication often cropped up. The truth is that even

if your boss is razor sharp and has the chops to lead, it's tough not to chafe when taking orders from someone who's the same age as your kids. Here are 10 ways to help you deal

with the age difference. 1. MANAGE YOUR ATTITUDE Keep in mind that you were once that brash young boss or rising star, full of clever ideas and new ways of doing things. So listen carefully

to what the boss has to say and respect the title and position. "Go out of your way to show your willingness to try new approaches," says Beverly Jones, an executive career coach

with Clearways Consulting in Washington, D.C. According to the CareerBuilder survey, some employees complained that their younger bosses acted as if they knew more than older workers when

they didn't. That may be true in some cases, but don't be so certain that you know more. You don't want to come across as a know-it-all. So quiet the condescending tone in

your voice. How you treat someone, even subliminally, generally is reflected back at you. Beware of developing a repetitive negative thought, like: "What does he know? He's got no

experience," Jones says. "Reframe your thinking, and regularly repeat a positive reminder to yourself, like: 'He's the boss. I'll figure out what he wants and needs,

and I'll give it to him.' " Then, too, try to see it from your boss' perspective. While you're fretting that your expertise isn't valued, your supervisor, in

fact, may be bristling that you're acting like a parent or mentor, and not giving the proper credit for his or her education and experience. 2. TALK ABOUT THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM

Younger bosses may wonder if you will have a tough time reporting to someone their age. They're concerned that you're set in your ways, not willing to try new approaches to doing

things, not up to snuff with technology, and possibly you don't have the grit to do the job. Tell them you realize that they may have these concerns, but explain why they shouldn't

worry. Better yet, show them. "Get social," Jones says. "You may not feel like hanging out with younger coworkers, but do it anyway, at least sometimes. Connecting at casual

events can help you build vital relationships and it will keep you in the information loop." If it's appropriate for your position, stay engaged on social networks such as LinkedIn

industry groups, Google+ or Twitter by posting interesting articles. You could forward an article to your boss that you think is cutting edge with a note that you ran across it via one of

your social media platforms.