Mature Worker Misconceptions

Making a strategic decision to better engage and recruit mature workers may be new to your business.

Common misconceptions about mature workers include:

Older workers have difficulty learning new skills, particularly with respect to

technology. Many experienced workers are eager to learn new skills, but are often

overlooked for professional development opportunities as a result of outdated

assumptions about willingness to learn new skills. Discussing and offering new

training opportunities is vital to creating an environment where learning can

comfortably occur.

Older employees will not work for many years. Research suggests that

mature workers sustain the highest job tenure overall. Their traditional values

of dedication and service translates into loyalty for your company.

Older workers have more health problems that will cause them to

miss work. Employees aged 50+ do not sustain more injuries or absences than

their younger counterparts. Many mature workers remain employed because of

the psychological and social benefits a workplace community provides. This

positive correlation between work and health has been well-documented and

indicates that people who stay engaged in work (either paid or unpaid) tend to

remain in better health and live longer – in all age groups.

It is awkward for young employees to manage older workers. A multigenerational

workforce provides an excellent opportunity for mutually beneficial relationships. A

commitment to ongoing and open communication creates an environment where respect

and understanding can thrive.

All mature workers want to work part time. Mature workers are often interested

in flexible work options. Providing flexibility to your employees will help distinguish

you as an employer of choice, not only for mature workers, but to other potential labour

pools such as immigrants, First Nations, young people and people with disabilities.

Older workers are unwilling or unable to adapt to new technologies. Older worker have the

ability to learn new knowledge and keep pace with younger workers.