Older Workers…Are You Missing Out On What They Can Bring To Your Company?
Does your company routinely find reasons to avoid hiring older workers? There is a long list of reasons managers who hire have for this bias that makes them reject older candidates.
Perpetuated stereotypes about older workers are:
- Older people are set in their ways
- Older people have resistance to change or technology
- They’re burned-out
- May have more absences for health issues
- They don’t fit in with younger teams and managers.
- Could be less creative
- They won’t stay long enough to be worth it to train them
- Unproductive
- Less mentally sharp
- Have unreasonable salary expectations
Is this what you think when you see a “mature” candidate come into your company for an interview?
Not only is that list not accurate, but maybe you are forgetting how many good reasons there are for considering an older worker.
Advantages of older workers
- Because older workers have more experience, they have frequently gone through multiple changes that required them to adapt. In fact, many enjoy the challenge of learning new technology and systems
- Older workers may see “the big picture” better than their younger co-workers
- They spend less time on texting, social media or other distractions
- They are often flexible and willing to do temp, part-time or contract work and their work ethic is from a different generation. And…they tend to be very punctual
- Willing to mentor and help younger workers
- Older workers are often more realistic about salaries and aren’t as aggressive about raises
- Many are active and health conscious, actually missing less work than younger workers
Of course, not every mature/seasoned worker is going to be the right fit for your job, but don’t count them out just because they are older. Improved skills through training, with the right personality, attitude and work ethic is priceless at whatever age you find it.
Need HR help?
Need help to be sure you are in compliance with hiring regulations? You can consult with an experienced CRA (Consumer Reporting Agency) that has the services you need to fill in your HR gaps. The right partner can help you recruit, integrate your system, perform background screening, drug testing at convenient locations, and provide support throughout the process. Feel confident that you are bringing the best hire into your company, and you have done due diligence both legally and ethically for your employees and customers. A professional CRA partner pays for itself by avoiding costly hiring mistakes. For a free consultation or more information, contact Genesis Background Screening Services at 866 944-0041 ext 101, email or visit https://www.genesisbackgroundscreening.com/
Genesis Background Screening is not a law firm and provides our blogs for informational purposes only. Therefore, the blog is not a substitute for experienced legal advice. Research any laws or regulations mentioned here, check with your legal counsel if you have questions and to confirm your organization is within the law regarding compliance.
Jacqueline McClure, Genesis Background Screening Services
