Communication expectations between younger superiors and older subordinates.

Abstract

One of the most important workplace relationships is that of superiors and subordinates. However, it is not clear if this relationship becomes more complex if traditional age roles are reversed and a younger superior manages an older subordinate. This study has been designed to explore the extent to which age complicates the communication dynamic between superiors and subordinates in regards to expectations of appropriate communication, and power and respect. Through the use of qualitative research, interviews were conducted and analyzed. The results revealed the important communication dynamics that exist between older subordinates and younger superiors. Themes such as adequate experience, reciprocal respect, training and development and collaborative communication were interpreted from the data and can be used to further explore scholarly concepts such as LMX and assist in practical senses.