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I Was a Manager in an Ageist Workplace
by Nicole D. Smith
A few years back, I decided to chat with one of my team members, a man in his late fifties. I had recently started a new position as a manager—was just a few weeks on the job—and I wanted to see how people were adjusting to the change.
We found a quiet room and started discussing weekend plans and work projects. As the conversation continued, I found a moment to bring up something I’d been thinking about: “So I have an idea.”
“OK,” my employee replied, slightly suspicious yet curious. During my short time leading the team, I’d learned he was admired for both his talent and his tenure, so getting his buy-in could mean others would be open to my idea.
“I think we should get together ...
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