Three Key Benefits of Hiring and Retaining Older Staff

Further still, those remaining in employment after reaching the State Pension Age of 65 is increasing, too.

While the reasoning behind this rise varies from person to person, but one thing that unites older employees is the value they offer to an employer.

1. Skills

Every employer and job role comes with new skills to learn. The more years a person has spent working in different areas or industries, the more skills they are likely to have picked up. For example, a woman born in 1950 may have started her working life in a factory, and since then, she may have gone into retail or hospitality and worked up to a more senior position over time. Throughout her adult life, she will have practised a wide range of useful skills, which make her suitable for most roles available now.

1. Communication and Networking

Networking is an art and the age of the internet and handheld technology have meant that most of our business connections are available at the push of a button. However, those who developed their careers without the aid of LinkedIn may be more adept at creating and maintaining interpersonal relationships with customers and stakeholders who like to get involved through both online and offline channels.

1. Inspiration and ideas

More experience means that older staff members have more to draw inspiration and creativity from. Trends are constantly changing, and are often influenced by things that have come before. Staff members who have witnessed the variety in customers’ tastes and preferences offer an invaluable insight into what the ‘next big thing’ might be.

As an employer, there are two ways you can ensure that your company fully appreciates the value that an age-diverse workforce can have; hiring older workers, and investing in those you already employ.

We can help you to make the most of your workforce by identifying ways in which you can support employees and encourage their full potential.

Find out more here.