The Age of Assumptions: How generational stereotypes cost you more than generational difference ever will

In today’s episode of You Might Try This, Stacey and Cade explore how assumptions about age shape the way leaders see, support, and develop their teams. They unpack why generational stereotypes often influence decisions without us realizing it, from hovering over younger employees to overlooking experienced team members. Drawing on research about stereotype threat and generational differences, they discuss how leaders can replace assumptions with curiosity and see people as individuals.

Key takeaways

Age-based assumptions can quietly change how leaders treat peopleGenerational differences at work are often smaller than we thinkStereotypes can create self-fulfilling prophecies through our actionsLeaders should focus on the individual, not the generationCuriosity helps uncover hidden strengths and capabilities in others

Chapters

00:01:34 – How age shapes first impressions as a leader

00:03:52 – Why new managers rely on assumptions

00:07:25 – The science behind stereotype threat

00:13:08 – How age bias changes the way leaders manage

00:15:46 – The myth of generational differences at work

00:22:31 – Three leadership experiments to challenge age bias

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