Why you should be hiring baby boomers

Loyal. Flexible. Experienced. It’s what every employer is looking for, right? And the good news is there are plenty of job seekers like this out there, you just need to know where to look.

According to recent data, a third of the Australian adult population is over 55. That’s a large portion of the workforce talent pool. However, unemployment of over 50s is rising five times faster than for those in their 20s. This is an alarming rate when you consider the experience these baby boomers possess.

In fact, a 2014 study by the National Seniors Productive Ageing Centre found that 96% of people aged 55 to 59 who were retrenched ended up retiring – a lot of wasted talent.

Every recruit will need some training, but it’s unfair to assume that older people’s skills are “redundant” and to overlook the advantages of hiring the over 50s – industry stalwarts who may operate on a flexible schedule, with years of experience under their belt.

Learn more about how connecting with mature-age workers can benefit your business 

Attract those with a solid work ethic and loyalty to your business

Sue-Ellen Watts, founder and director of wattsnext, specialists in HR, recruitment and compliance, says older employees find themselves in a position where they are able to be committed to their roles. After all, for many, this is a time of life where children have flown the nest, and mortgage stress is abating.

This means you’re likely to hire someone who is committed, engaged and can mentor younger employees, she says.

A diverse work culture only benefits your business

Mature age employers have experience in their chosen field and are often highly active on social, Watts says.

“You’re going to have someone who has faced lots of different challenges, gained industry connections and different experiences that can only be beneficial to the company that’s hiring,” she says.

Sheilah Cummins, CEO of Care Options, recently hired a mature age employee – Christina – for her business, who she says brings a wealth of experience and a diverse background to the business.

Cummins acknowledges that the skills Christina possesses cannot be trained. They’re life skills. Skills that, Cummins says, are enormously beneficial to Christina’s role, which includes providing intensive personal care services. By hiring mature-aged workers, Cummins says, “You get people with a wealth of experience.”

And who doesn’t want that?

Written by: Thea Christie