Age means nothing - don’t get trapped 

I was recently talking to a friend who is outperforming all his peers. He has developed incredible soft and hard skills required for the next level.

More importantly, for more than 8 consecutive quarters, he killed the game (hitting all his targets). Looking at the company’s promotion criteria, no one deserved the promotion more than him.

Unfortunately, he did not get the promotion. Necessarily, it’s not a bad thing. And to paraphrase Mandela, sometimes you win, sometimes you learn. Therefore, you are growing up.

Now, how can you learn when the given reason makes no sense? When you can’t do anything about it because it’s not under your control? Oh, I remember, I didn’t tell you the reason. My friend was denied his promotion because he was « too young ». After going through the emotions circle (anger, sadness, empathy and acceptance) I decided to deep dive. So I ask around other friends and they confirm that they are facing the same with their millennials and baby boomers managers.

So here is my point on behalf of all Gen Z:

Dear millennials and baby boomer managers,

Age means nothing. It’s just numbers. Let’s not use this as a “weapon” to not give Gen Z what they deserved.

It’s not because they don’t have children that they have to settle for less than what they deserve. 

It’s not because they’re not married that they’re not responsible. Besides, if that was the case, you would have fired them.

It’s not because they’re under 30 that they do not have the capacity to be a good manager or leader.

It’s not because their predecessor had to wait 5 years before getting promoted, they have to do so.

Give Gen Z what they deserve and your companies will continue to grow. Sky is the limit!