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My subordinates are very experienced and older than me . How do I control them? ramesh asked me. He was just 26 and working in a managerial position in a multinational company.

Ramesh's problem is not isolated. Many times ,young managers feel miserable and embarrassed by elder subordinates. This results in total dissatisfaction of the employee and also inferior work atmosphere . But you can avoid this by following the five principles given below.

1. Be soft but firm.

Elders often get irritated by a harsh tone from a young manager. But you can be convey the same feelings in a silent cool voice . This will not hurt him.
For example for a late coming person, the question "why are you late today?" can be put in many ways some of which hurting and some very gentle but firm.

2. Try to understand their problems.
Elders may have many problems which may seem irrelevant to you. This may include health related problems,family matters etc. A boss who understands them is more liked than a person who is indifferent to them and demands work without consideration.

3. Value the experience.
Many times the experience of an employee can be useful in handling situations. You as a manager can get their opinion about the problem at hand and try to improvise on the solution. Also conversations with elders valuing their opinions will be very much helpful to you in maintain a relationship.

4. Give them the pride by delegating.
After some time you get a feel of the capabilities and and limitations of each. If you find a subordinate capable you can make him feel a position by delegating necessary work to him. Only thing is that he should not have a feeling that you are delegating because of your incapability.
5. hold your cool.
Inspire of all these ,if you find that the situation is tense or unpleasing. try to hold your cool and handle it. It any even be better to leave it as it is for some time before you handle it. A gap may reduce the tension in the atmosphere.