Navigating the Multigenerational Workplace: Lessons from TV Land’s Younger
As I reflected on my interactions with a new millennial colleague, I couldn’t help but think of the challenges faced by those starting their careers. Her eagerness to please and impress, though admirable, often left me feeling like I’d just exited a thrilling carnival ride. I wanted to help her succeed, and that desire led me to ponder the lessons I’d learned from watching TV Land’s dramedy Younger.
The show’s protagonist, Liza, a 40-year-old who pretends to be 26 to restart her publishing career, resonated with me. Like Liza, I’d cut short a promising career for personal reasons and later had to navigate the challenges of being a “young professional” with a more mature mindset. This experience taught me valuable lessons about interacting with colleagues from different generations.
Recognizing the Knowledge Gap
One crucial takeaway from Liza’s journey is the importance of acknowledging that no one knows everything. When Liza struggles with social media, she seeks guidance from her colleague Kelsey. This willingness to ask for help is essential in building strong relationships with colleagues. By lending a hand discreetly, you can win an ally and foster a supportive work environment.
Rising Above Pettiness
Liza’s colleagues, Kelsey and Diana, demonstrate two vastly different approaches to dealing with mistakes. While Kelsey works with Liza to rectify errors, Diana exploits others’ blunders to advance her own career. This contrast highlights the importance of teamwork and empathy in the workplace. Rather than profiting from others’ misfortunes, focus on lifting each other up to achieve collective success.
Age is Just a Number
Younger poignantly illustrates the perils of ageism, a form of discrimination that affects both young and old. Liza faces skepticism from younger colleagues who doubt her abilities due to her age, while older colleagues like Diana are dismissed as out of touch. It’s essential to recognize that age is merely a number and that individuals from different generations bring unique perspectives and strengths to the table.
Dealing with Difficult Colleagues
Liza’s experiences with condescending colleagues serve as a reminder that mean-spirited behavior can come from anyone, regardless of age. The key takeaway is to ignore the negativity and focus on maintaining a professional demeanor. By doing so, you’ll earn respect and avoid being derailed by others’ judgments.
Breaking Down Barriers
Finally, Younger highlights the importance of treating older colleagues as equals. By doing so, you can break down barriers and gain valuable supporters and mentors. Liza’s kindness, sense of humor, and values remain constant, regardless of her perceived age. This observation serves as a powerful reminder to approach colleagues from different generations with empathy and understanding.
By embracing these lessons, we can create a more harmonious and productive multigenerational workplace where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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