There’s an unspoken tension in many workplaces today: younger professionals are eager to contribute, but they often find themselves caught in a strange no-man’s-land. They’re not entry-level anymore, but they’re not given full leadership authority either. They’re trusted… but not empowered.
And on the other side, many seasoned leaders are quietly facing their own version of this. Despite years of experience, they may feel increasingly dismissed or overlooked in a fast-paced, younger workforce.
Both of these are forms of age bias. And both require awareness, humility, and a new kind of leadership.
Recently, I’ve been coaching a talented young professional in his early 20s. He’s sharp, trusted by leadership, and already operating at a higher level than his title reflects. But the team around him doesn’t see it. Some new hires—who technically report to him—don’t respect his authority. Why? Because of his age. Because he wasn’t “officially” promoted. Because no one clarified the org chart.
That gray area creates real tension.
He was brought in to help lead, but he’s stuck without a title, a team that challenges him, and leadership that hasn’t set the tone.
So what does a young leader do in that kind of environment?
5 Mindsets for Young Leaders in Ambiguous Roles
- Lead anyway.
You don’t need a title to lead. Show up with clarity, consistency, and calm. That earns trust faster than trying to “prove” yourself. - Seek clarity, not control.
Don’t force your way into leadership—ask for structure. Invite your managers to clarify expectations and authority. Say something like,
“I’d love to help bring more clarity to the team dynamic. What role do you see me playing here?” - Respect isn’t automatic—it’s built.
Not everyone will believe in you at first. That’s okay. Earn it through reliability, emotional intelligence, and a willingness to own both the wins and the messes. - Stay grounded in your value.
You’re not “just” young. You bring perspective, energy, and insight that are often missing. Own that without arrogance. - This is your leadership laboratory.
Every confusing meeting or sideways comment is an opportunity to learn how to lead through uncertainty. It may not be glamorous now, but this is where real leaders are formed.
And to the Senior Leaders in the Room…
Don’t assume younger team members aren’t ready just because they’re green. Some of them have insight, creativity, and emotional intelligence that your organization desperately needs. They’re not asking for corner offices—they’re asking for clarity, trust, and an invitation to help.
And if you’re a seasoned pro navigating your own version of being overlooked, know this: wisdom is always needed. But it carries the most weight when it’s offered with humility, curiosity, and a willingness to champion others—especially the ones coming up behind you.
Age bias exists in both directions. But so does the opportunity for mutual respect, shared leadership, and growth across generations.
Let’s build workplaces where wisdom and fresh perspective don’t compete—they collaborate.
scott-lowe.com 
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