Rethinking Older Talent: Why Our Experience is Your Advantage

Let's be honest.

It’s tough out there for a job-hunter in their later years. I hate to say it, but looking for a new gig when you’re over 50 (gasp!!) is a bit harder than say someone in their 20s. It constantly feels like companies prioritize the new and trendy – and the young. But when it comes to building a strong team, there's immense value and power in experience (read: older worker). And here’s why:

• Seasoned workers bring a wealth of knowledge to the table. They've been through industry shifts, navigated challenges, and generally possess a deep understanding of their craft. What does this mean for companies? It translates into better problem-solving and insightful decision-making - along with the ability to stay calm under pressure. All qualities that are invaluable in any role.

• Lengthy training is probably not necessary. Sure, there may be some proprietary systems that need to be taught, but business fundamentals are like riding a bike to those of us who’ve been around the block a time or two. Experienced workers are known to be able to quickly grasp new concepts and apply their existing knowledge, becoming productive contributors from day one. This saves companies valuable time and training resources, allowing you to hit the ground running with minimal onboarding.

• An age-diverse workforce is a strong workforce. Experienced workers act as mentors, guiding and supporting – and yes, learning from - younger colleagues. This back-and-forth knowledge transfer fosters a collaborative environment, empowers your team, and ensures your company's expertise continues to grow.

• Experience builds resilience. Older workers have likely faced their fair share of workplace pressure. They understand how to stay focused, manage their emotions, and navigate challenging situations – all without resorting to the "overreaction" sometimes seen in less seasoned colleagues. Bonus – we’re a lot less likely to post our rants and raves on TikTok. Ain’t nobody got time for that!

Seriously, when you’re looking for talent that's reliable, resourceful, and ready (hey – the Three R’s!) to make a real difference, look to the power of experience. Don’t let a number on driver license, a few grey hairs or some wrinkles affect your hiring decisions. Build age-inclusive workplaces that value the wisdom and expertise of every generation. That’s a win-win-win for everybody!

#hiring #workforce #ageinclusion #experience #mentorship #talent