How to Overcome the Fear of Talking to Older Colleagues

Young professionals increasingly face an unusual barrier at work: they find it difficult to talk to older colleagues. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. A LinkedIn study revealed that one in five young employees has not engaged in direct conversation with a colleague over 50 in the past year.

Young professionals increasingly face an unusual barrier at work: they find it difficult to talk to older colleagues. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. A LinkedIn study revealed that one in five young employees has not engaged in direct conversation with a colleague over 50 in the past year.

Why does this happen?

The main culprit is fear of seeming incompetent. Young workers worry that their ideas might not be taken seriously, especially by those with decades of experience. This fear is amplified by a reliance on online communication—sending a message is far easier than starting an in-person conversation. Add in shyness and social anxiety, which affects more than 60% of young employees, and the challenge becomes even greater.

The good news? This barrier can be overcome. Here’s how to start:

1. Prepare in Advance

Want to share an idea or ask a question? Plan what you want to say. Being specific helps you feel more confident and avoids awkward pauses.

2. Start Small

You don’t need to propose big changes right away. Begin with simple steps: ask for advice or an opinion. Older colleagues enjoy sharing their expertise, and this builds trust.

3. Leverage Your Strengths as Gen Z

You grew up with technology—use this to your advantage! Help with tools, automation, or apps. Collaboration makes communication smoother.

4. Don’t Fear Mistakes

Making mistakes is part of learning. Older colleagues appreciate your willingness to grow, not perfection. Acknowledging your weaknesses is the first step to overcoming fear.

5. Build Personal Connections

Start conversations about non-work topics. Shared interests like sports, movies, or food can break the ice.

Why Does It Matter?

Talking to senior colleagues not only reduces anxiety but opens doors to incredible growth opportunities. You can learn things they don’t teach in blogs or textbooks while inspiring them with your energy and fresh ideas.

By overcoming your fear, you’ll unlock a new level of communication and build a career founded on trust and mutual respect.

So, don’t be afraid to take the first step. Your success starts with one simple word: “Hello!”