Your age is your superpower: Starting new in your 30s

Written By Maria Rosario

Sorry I missed you last month– the flu took me OUT. But I’m back.

In brighter news, I am happy to share that I’ve been admitted into NYU where I will be pursuing my master’s in Integrated Marketing with a concentration in Brand Management. I am super excited to continue pursuing my passions for storytelling, strategizing and creating visually impactful content.

Y’all already know— major shoutout to God! I’ve been applying to grad school since 2020 (RIP to my MBA pursuits, respectfully) and am super excited to continue stepping into my calling.

With new chapters of course comes new thoughts. And something that has been on my mind lately is: 

“Am I too old for this?”
“Will I fit in?”

It’s no surprise that many of my grad-school peers are in their 20s, so of course I feel a little out of place. But then I reflected on what it felt like to be in my 20s, working with older colleagues and how my favorite work besties have all been older than me.

So with that, this month I’m sharing practical steps to building and managing intergenerational relationships at work. Whether you’re the youngest in the room or the most seasoned, here’s a few reminders of how we can learn from each other and thrive together.

Older Colleagues:

  • Young people are not your competition—they’re yourcollaborators.

    • They often bring fresh ideas and unique perspectives. Be open and inviting.

  • A good way to build relationships with the next generation is by mentoring. It won’t replace your job—it’ll extend your impact.

    • Just make sure to ask how they’d like to grow or be supported—don’t assume. 

  • Share your journey— believe it or not, there’s inspiration and value in your story.

  • When you notice behaviors that are different than yourgeneration’s, lead with curiosity. 

    • It doesn’t make you old, it makes you open minded and well-rounded.

  • Listen. Yes, you’re experienced, but there’s still more to learn.

  • Embrace change. It’s not a threat, it’s growth.

  • Respect younger colleagues as professional adults—not “kids”.

  • Take initiative to teach them the skills you’ve learned over time like negotiating salary, navigating tough managers and strategic career moves.

  • Advocate for your younger colleague. Leverage your seniority in spaces like performance reviews and speak up for them when you can.

Younger Colleagues:

  • Be open to feedback—it’s not criticism, it’s perspective.

    • More often than not, older colleagues see the bigger picture and just want to help you avoid mistakes.

  • Resist the urge to be overly emotional or reactive. Pause. Reflect.Then respond.

  • A proactive way to build relationships is by offering to teach new skills like tech tools, social media or the latest trend.

  • Communication styles vary—be patient.

  • Invite older teammates into your world or activities. Surprisingly, they like to have fun too!

  • Engage without taking things personally—culture shifts take time.

  • Be open minded. Ask questions. Stay curious. Truth is, you don’tknow everything (yet).

  • Don’t underestimate the soft skills that are learned with time.

    • Take advantage of learning how seasoned professionals handle crises, tough conversations and transitions.

  • Advocate for your older colleague. Challenge ageist assumptions and encourage the inclusion of older workers in programs or advancement opportunities. 

Multigenerational Team Leaders:

  • Build in time for collaboration, bonding, and social connection.

  • Create opportunities for two-way mentoring—whether through programs, projects, or professional development series.

  • Be mindful of ageism in hiring, promotions, and development.

  • Highlight generational diversity in impact reports, marketing materials, and strategy— this will help set the tone for the organization.

  • Ask each team member how they would like to grow. Don’t assume or cap them based on their age.

  • Bring diverse age groups into decision-making spaces (like hiring committees and strategic planning sessions).

  • Listen.

  • Acknowledge and celebrate the contributions of all team members, regardless of their age.

  • Remember: every generation is a valuable resource. Tap into that!

In sum, building relationships across generations is a valuable life-hack. It allows us to teach and learn simultaneously—and often sparks the kind of creativity and innovation that only diverse perspectives can bring.

I’m excited to step into this new chapter of my life as a mentor, a peer and a student. 

Cheers to bridging generations and to never being too late to be who you were meant to be. “When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen.” Isaiah 60:22

NYU Class of 2027, here I come! 

Maria Rosario

Read this Harvard Business Review article for more insight on intergenerational relationships. https://hbr.org/2022/03/harnessing-the-power-of-age-diversity

 

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT TIP OF THE MONTH

 

This is your friendly reminder to never stop learning. This month I want you to:

TRAVEL INSPO

Spring is here which means it’s time to plan for Euro-Summer! This month, my destination recommendation is: Albania.

WHY:

  • Still somewhat underrated

  • Many stunning beaches to choose from

  • Perfect destination to go on road trips and visit different towns

  • More affordable than other European cities

  • Best time to visit: May, early June or early September

WHERE I’D STAY: (2 beachfront recommendations. Link in hotel name)

INN Hotel Vlore

You guys this room * gasp *

Epidamn White Sensation

Beach front luxury boutique hotel with an elegant beautiful onsite restaurant.

Need help planning your next trip?
Book a FREE 15 minute call with me.

THAT’S ALL FOLKS!

If you liked my content and want to support my work, you can do so by gifting me a coffee :)

buymeacoffee.com/mariarosario

Thank you for reading through!

Talk to you in May!

Maria Rosario
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