For many of us in the mid-career stage who still clock in from 9 to 5, our workplace is filled with younger colleagues—like, much younger. When they casually mention high school experiences involving TikTok, it can feel like we were in a different universe where the Internet was just a dream. But don’t fret! There are plenty of perks to being the wise sage in the office.
You Seem More Financially Secure
When you invite those fresh-faced 20-somethings over for drinks after work, they’ll marvel at your roommate-free abode. Your art is framed! Your furniture actually matches! No need to mention the fact that you only acquired those nice dishes post-divorce, or that your mom helped fund that furniture spree after said divorce. Who cares? You’re living the adult dream!
Happy Hour is Always a Go
Millennials are always game for an after-work drink. Well, who isn’t? While the more responsible members of your generation (read: not you) might have to rush home to prepare dinner for the kids, you can enjoy the freedom of spontaneous outings. Plus, there’s a chance you might get carded at the bar—it’s a little win, even if it’s just out of pity.
No Judgment for Your Fashion Choices
Every now and then, you might forget your age and unwittingly snag a trendy outfit from a store like Urban Outfitters. Or you might show up in that tunic-sweater combo that looked fabulous—what, six months ago? (It might actually be more like seven years.) The great news? Your younger coworkers haven’t yet been conditioned to judge age-appropriate attire; they’ll compliment your look, calling it super cute!
Learning New Lingo
Your last brush with being “cool” probably coincided with the last time people used the word “cool.” For instance, did you know what a selfie stick was? And “basic,” which you thought was a compliment, is now an insult? Your younger colleagues are like a live dictionary—helping you navigate this new slang.
Understanding Pop Culture
That show “Girls”? You’ve heard of it, but understanding its appeal is a different story. Why don’t the characters have jobs? And what’s the big deal with Adam Driver? You find yourself questioning the fashion choices on the show (seriously, who goes to the ER in just a T-shirt?). Luckily, your 20-something coworkers are very much put together and always remember to wear pants!
Minor Guest at Weddings
Remember when you were knee-deep in wedding season? You were either squeezed into a cringe-worthy bridesmaid dress or nursing a hangover while crafting the perfect toast. Now that many of your friends are knee-deep in boring family life, having colleagues in their 20s means you might just get invited to a wedding. And the best part? You’re likely toward the bottom of the guest list, so you can show up without worrying about organizing the bachelorette party!
You’ve Got Wisdom to Share!
Surprisingly, you’ve got a lot to offer these young folks. They’re facing their fair share of breakups, job woes, and family drama, often confiding in you at lunch or over a glass of wine after work. It turns out, you have valuable advice to share—and you kind of know what you’re talking about! After all, you’ve been there, done that, and come out the other side.
This article was originally published on March 3, 2015.
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Summary:
Working alongside Millennials can be a rewarding experience, offering benefits such as a sense of financial stability, a lively social life, fashion freedom, and fresh perspectives on trends and pop culture. You might find yourself invited to weddings and even sharing your life wisdom as they navigate their early adulthood challenges.