Q.
After a promotion, I now manage people who are quite a bit older than me. How can I get them to take me seriously?
A.
Not since the high school cafeteria have you needed to step so delicately. Coddle and cajole and they'll feel patronized. Bulldoze and boss and they'll feel...pissed off. The best strategy? Divide and conquer. Book one-on-ones with everyone who reports to you to get a read on their duties, hear their ideas and map out goals. In a private, low-key setting, it'll be easier for each person to set aside ego and get on board with you.