Feb Knight Views . . . Don't Miss Out on the Most Valuable Workers

Consider this."The dramatic increase in the number of middle-aged and older workers in the . . . labour force is transforming the world of work. People are exploring working longer, new career and employment options, and the use of experience in new and challenging ways. There is a need to rethink how we see middle and older adulthood."--Working Longer, American Management Association

What is your organization's stand on this topic? There are many benefits to hiring older workers. Many say seasoned workers are the most valuable. What can they bring to the job that is so beneficial?

Knowledge, wisdom, and experience gained from years of work and learning
Emotional intelligence so they know how to deal effectively and appropriately with people they encounter, whether fellow workers or customers
Problem solving skills, developed over years of facing problems and dealing with them productively
Honesty, responsibility, dependability, focus, organization, and maturity
The ability to be excellent mentors and role models, setting a good example for others
Confidence built up over years of work ensures they share ideas and thoughts openly and diplomatically
Loyalty...they are often used to staying with one employer rather than moving around to various jobs like younger workers do
Desire to learn, grow and adapt, the same as younger workers

So what are the drawbacks of keeping or hiring older workers? I'm not sure. Maybe they won't be staying as long with the organization as younger workers could (although younger ones do change jobs quite often). That need not detract from all the strengths they bring to the job.

Valuable workers are there for the hiring. Don't miss out!