I recently became an Enterprise AE in my mid-20s. The company’s in the top 100 on the Fortune 500, so it felt like a no-brainer to join. The weird part is my whole team is basically my dad’s age. A lot of them started their sales careers when I was still in middle school, so it’s been tough finding common ground. Every time I try to connect, it feels like I’m talking to my dad lol. I know I can sell and I earned the role, but it’s still super awkward feeling like the kid at the adults’ table. Anyone else gone through something similar?
Is there not a "new employee"/young person ERG? IBM used to have an ERG more at that level, joining an ERG in general might help you feel more connected. Also some of the commonalities you have with them are the same: you're all carrying a bag, all have customers, all have a manager. Hang loose. You already work on the same team---do you have any commonalities? Do you all like football? scotch? cigars? Also many of your customers are probably older, if you can play nice with them you can cultivate friendships/allies with your older team members.
did you not like the answers you received to this q on Reddit?
I get what you mean. I had a similar experience earlier on. My advice would be to not force it but let it happen organically. Easy ways to build connections with them would be to ask them for deal advice or talk to them about what's working or what isn't. Talk about common interests: sports, travel, food. Ask about their kids if they have any. Don't overthink it, you're there for a reason.