Not to widen the generational rift—for the record, there really isn't one unless a Mr. Justin Bieber comes up—but can we stop with the "you're young so I must be smarter than you" mentality? *Not* gucci.
With advice from Vicki Salemi, career expert for Monster (opens in new tab), here's how to handle this type of lazy put-down, which we sincerely hope you encounter only when someone catches you circling the fax machine like it's on display at the Guggenheim.
Don't apologize for your existence.
"'Sorry for my age!' shouldn't be in your vocabulary, even if you say it in jest," Salemi says. It's more like "Sorry you're afraid of me because I represent change and the passage of time and your mortality."
She's just jealous.
If you want to get psychological, intimidation is a reaction to *being* intimidated. So first, you have our permission to go on a mini power trip over the realization that little old you could have that affect on someone more senior; then take a deep breath and find the strength to forgive. It's not you—it's just that millennials really need to get a better publicist.
You're beautiful, and you're going to do great today.
It seems counterintuitive, but you should actually be flattered that someone's going through all that trouble to try to make you feel naïve and inexperienced. Like, would they do that to someone who's *not* doing well? Nuh uh. "Haters mean you've made it." —Winston Churchill. Or somebody.
Make like a tree.
...And leave. On the one hand, why give in to the bullies? On the other hand, over time, you could become numb and a husk of your former work self, which could then have an unhealthy impact on your mood and the quality of your work. The universe might be full of casual and callous destruction, but you still deserve every chance at happiness. Besides, acting as a spokesperson for the youths gets old fast.
Way better than having to defend your existence = defending a Big Idea that could be $$$. Catch new show Quit Your Day Job (opens in new tab) on Wednesdays at 10/9c on Oxygen. Keep an eye out for Marie Claire executive editor Lea Goldman!
Follow Marie Claire on Instagram (opens in new tab) for the latest celeb news, pretty pics, funny stuff, and an insider POV.
-
A Celebrity Colorist Explains Why You Should Always Wash Your Hair After Coloring ItEvery color needs a good cleanse.
-
Lizzo's Game-Changing Eyebrow Hack Is About to Revamp Your Makeup Routine
She also gave us a peek inside her makeup bag.
-
This Is the Only Dry Shampoo That Makes My Hair Feel Clean—Not Crunchy
Bonus: It’s only $8 per bottle.
-
Peloton’s Selena Samuela on Turning Tragedy Into Strength
Before becoming a powerhouse cycling instructor, Selena Samuela was an immigrant trying to adjust to new environments and new versions of herself.
-
This Mutual Fund Firm Is Helping to Create a More Sustainable Future
Amy Domini and her firm, Domini Impact Investments LLC, are inspiring a greater and greener world—one investor at a time.
-
Power Players Build on Success
"The New Normal" left some brands stronger than ever. We asked then what lies ahead.
-
Don't Stress! You Can Get in Good Shape Money-wise
Yes, maybe you eat paleo and have mastered crow pose, but do you practice financial wellness?
-
The Book Club Revolution
Lots of women are voracious readers. Other women are capitalizing on that.
-
The Future of Women and Work
The pandemic has completely upended how we do our jobs. This is Marie Claire's guide to navigating your career in a COVID-19 world.
-
Black-Owned Coworking Spaces Are Providing a Safe Haven for POC
For people of color, many of whom prefer to WFH, inclusive coworking spaces don't just offer a place to work—they cultivate community.
-
Where Did All My Work Friends Go?
The pandemic has forced our work friendships to evolve. Will they ever be the same?
