More opportunities for baby boomers
HR consultants say clients are increasingly moving away from the ”bright young things” mentality of the late 20th century and employing baby boomers, rather than Gen Y. The older workers are easier to manage, require ”less stroking”, don’t need major upskilling, and tend not to be particularly ambitious for their next role. They can also be natural coaches for other members of the team. Also, as hard times bite, having someone with smaller financial commitments (children left home, mortgages reduced) who will probably welcome being ”forced” to work four days a week, will be a blessing to some companies.
The above is from an interesting article on work-force composition and the need for older workers, rather than the past emphasis on youth. Adam for one welcomes this trend. It is time that we older workers got a fair go!
Comments are closed.
Part of the problem that many older workers find is the fact that many ‘managers’ feel threatened by their experience and thus are reluctant o hire them
I employ three staff in my business. All are older than I am and their work ethic cannot be faulted, whereas mine can be!
My oldest employee is almost 74 and is only now slowing down and reducing her hours.
when time comes to replace her services I will be looking for some-one similar but 20 years younger.
Tony
I think our comments are driven by our experiences. I have seen many Gen Y who do not display the same work ethic as myself, on the other hand I have been described as a workaholic.
I have also met and worked with baby boomers who are happy to vegetate.
One thing though is the need for more recruiters to recognise that those over 55 are not past it and have much to contribute.
Trouble is we believe the social stereotypes that academics and journalists set for us as a sort of fashion trend (remember biorhythms in the 1980′s?). I have two “Gen Y” people working for me and they are just great. They happily work extra time if needed. I also have a “baby boomer” staff member who’s the opposite.
“Baby boomers” need as much upskilling as anyone else. Failure to do that leads to personal and corporate stagnation.
We need to get out of this rigid thinking that brands others without regard for them as individuals – or at least recognise that these are just coarse, and at times hurtful, marketing stereotypes.
Gen Y do not seem to have a work ethic
The work ethic of the ‘baby boomers’ is also unmatched by the younger generations. If you want somehing done, especially on a Friday afternoon, get an oldie to do it.