Why You Shouldn’t Overlook Older Job Candidates

Japan has had a dilemma for the past decade: there aren't enough employees to fill all available jobs. Now, Recruit, a staffing solutions company, released an app that encourages the rehiring of retired employees.

Could turning to older workers be a path forward in the wake of the Great Resignation? Historically, these workers have been subjected to prejudice in hiring and employment practices. However, this is not only unjust to more experienced professionals; it also means that companies may be missing out on the numerous benefits these people provide.

 

Why should you hire older workers?

1. They have a lot of experience on their side.

According to research published in the Harvard Business Review, the average age of entrepreneurs when they started their businesses was 42. Entrepreneurs with a minimum of three years of work experience were 85% more likely to launch a successful firm than those with no relevant expertise.

Furthermore, according to the same research, younger founders are less likely in non-tech businesses. For example, the average starting age in industries such as oil & gas or biotechnology is roughly 47. Even in the software and computer industry, known for its young superstars, Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, Jeff Bezos, and Larry Page attained their greatest success when they were in their forties.

All of this indicates that experience significantly impacts how successfully people perform their jobs.

 

2. They are very reliable.

Employers place a high value on reliability. They require employees who can be relied upon to be productive and not squander business time.

A study that compared the productivity of young individuals (20–31) and older persons (65–80) on 12 different tasks over 100 days found that the older group's performance was more constant than the younger group's.

 

3. They have a higher likelihood of being loyal.

In the workplace, millennials have a reputation for changing jobs frequently. This isn't simply a guess. According to a Gallup survey, they are three times as likely as their older counterparts to have changed occupations in the past year.

As a result, older employees are more likely to be loyal. This saves time and money for companies, as the recruiting and hiring process is time-consuming and costly.

 

4. They are dependable.

Employees who have worked in the industry, or even a single corporation, for a long time, are familiar with its ins and outs. They can deliver consistent results because they have learned what customers or clients want. 

On the other hand, newer employees face a steeper learning curve as they adjust to new situations and expectations.

 

5. They can act as a mentors

That isn't to say that less experienced people aren't capable; they lack the experience that older workers possess. Another advantage of older workers is that they can provide direction and mentorship to their younger, less experienced colleagues. 

This is crucial in building a stronger staff base, and it will help both younger and older employees feel more appreciated.

 

6. Your brand will improve.

Consumers admire companies that encourage diversity, including hiring people of various ages and backgrounds. This will reflect well on your business and demonstrate that your words and actions are in sync, allowing you to earn and retain customers and clients.