Tough Interview Question #19: How Would You Feel Reporting to Somene Younger Than You?

In the United States, for years, this same question was asked about reporting to a woman. Now we take it for granted.

Now, in the US, the question is asked about someone younger than you to acknowledge that may from The Baby Boom generation are aging and being replaced in management roles by people younger than they are. In your country, this may remain an issue may still be asked about women, religious or cultural affiliation in which case, you can use the same style of answer, adapted to the specifics of your circumstances.

So underlying the question is whether you have a bias that will cause friction between you and your future boss that would cause a management problem.

So the wrong answer is the simple, "No, " or "No problem. Some of my best friends are . . . "

Instead, opt for flattery.

"I greatly admire an organization that chooses to reward someone based upon merit, rather than through age (or gender or race, etc). In an organization like this one, the clear message is that if you deserve it, you will be promoted. If you don't deserve it, you won't. And more importantly, the message you are sending is that talent won't be held back for reasons of bias."

"To be successful, organizations need to attract and retain the best talent and that's what you are doing here."

Jeff Altman 
The Big Game Hunter
www.TheBigGameHunter.us

JeffAltman@TheBigGameHunter.us

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