First of all, I understand that this situation may embarrass you, because you must not only maintain the company's decision-making, but also take care of the feelings of older employees. Here are some suggestions to help you maintain respect while explaining and convey the company's intentions.： ### 1. **Express respect and gratitude** -**Affirm their contribution**: First of all, express gratitude to older employees for their long-term contributions to the company. Let them feel that their experience and efforts are recognized and valued. -**Respect their experience**: Emphasize the importance of their experience and wisdom to the company, indicating that these qualities are indispensable in other aspects of the company (such as strategic decision-making, team management). ### 2. **Explain the objectives of the meeting** -**Clarify the purpose of the meeting**: Explain that the main goal of this meeting is to stimulate innovative thinking and explore new directions, so the company decided to invite some young employees because they may be more familiar with emerging technologies and market trends. -**Emphasize specific needs**: Explain that the content and format of the meeting are more suitable for the way of thinking and innovative spirit of young employees. This does not mean that the abilities of older employees are insufficient, but that the goals of the meeting are different from their strengths. ### 3. **Provide alternative opportunities** -**Propose other ways to participate**: If possible, older employees are recommended to participate in meetings in other ways, such as as consultants or providing feedback, so that they can still contribute their own experience and insights. -**Promise future opportunities**: Assure them that there will be other events or meetings suitable for them to participate in in the future, and the company will continue to rely on their experience and wisdom. ### 4. **Keep communication open** -**Listen to their feelings**: If they express dissatisfaction or confusion, listen patiently and understand their feelings to avoid making them feel neglected or underappreciated. -**Maintain transparency**: Be transparent and honest in explaining, and avoid making them feel that the company has hidden motivations or biases. ### Sample conversation： “Thank you very much for your continued contribution and dedication to the company. We attach great importance to your experience and wisdom, which are indispensable in other aspects of the company. The main goal of this meeting is to stimulate innovative thinking and explore new directions, so we decided to invite some young employees to participate because they may be more familiar with emerging technologies and market trends. This is not to say that your abilities are insufficient, but that the goals of the meeting are different from your strengths. We very much hope that there will be other opportunities for you to participate and contribute your valuable experience in the future. If you have any ideas or suggestions, we always welcome your feedback. ” In this way, you can respect older employees while clearly communicating the company's decisions and maintaining a positive communication atmosphere.