Why were you hired for this job? None of these older people were hired. So that means that they aren’t interested in management, or if they are, they weren’t considered good at it. If there is a person who was passed over for you, that would be a person to try to draw back into the team, especially if they have attitude. Either that, or some people would fire them. I wouldn’t think that would go over well, though.
But assume that none of them wanted to manage. That means they are scientists or something and they like to be left alone to do their jobs. They have no interest in management. If that’s the case, they are probably grateful that someone is doing it, so long as they stay out of their way.
The first thing you have to do is go around and talk to everyone about what they are doing and how they do it. Do not make any changes until you have done that. Canvass them and ask them what things could be done to make it easier for them to do their jobs. You’re management. You’re their servant. Don’t forget that. Most people think it’s the other way around.
If you think of yourself as a servant whose job is to help everyone else do their job, you’ll have a good start. Now you may have to redirect them a bit, depending on the goals of the company, but if you explain it well, they will go along with you. And if you make it clear you are going to protect them from whatever shit it is they don’t want to be involved with, you’ll win them over.
Most people just want to be left alone to do what they are good at. They hate meetings. They just want to be told to go and then left to go. Let them go. One of the worst things you can do is micromanage them. They need to feel trusted to do the right thing without close oversight. When you have a meeting, make it short and sweet and only do the things that you absolutely must have people work on together. If someone doesn’t need to be there, than make their presence optional. Let them know the meeting is happening so they don’t feel left out, but also let them know their presence isn’t required.
Sit yourself down in the middle of everyone. Talk to everyone every day—informally. If your desk is in the middle, people can stop and chat whenever they want to or need to. This is very important. If you have a corner office, ditch it. You’re there for them. If you keep that thought in mind, you won’t have a problem. As long as you are always prepared.