There's a change in recruiting strategies in many American businesses - and the fastest growing group in the workforce is those over 55. Texas AARP's Juanita Jimenez Soto says there's reason. "Employers want to hire people who are [older and may already be] retired. They have experience under their belts! One other reason is that they are very reliable. Supervisors don't have to worry about them wanting to take time off because of matters with their children!" A manager might think about them, 'You've got the skilled labor. You've got the time to devote. You are all very reliable individuals who are willing to do whatever they need to do to get the job done.'"
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These older workers may have their own demands. Soto says, "88% want job stability. 87% want competitive pay. 67% want healthcare benefits and a retirement plan." It's not only a shot in the arm to area businesses, many older professionals need the work. They're living longer, and inflation is eating into their savings.
More than 2,500 U. S. companies have signed an AARP Pledge of Commitment to give workers over 50 a fair shot. They include Microsoft, H&R Block and the Bank of America. Soto says the older workers are happy for the work satisfaction as well as their paychecks in this age of rising inflation. Win/Win!
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older worker back at work with younger workerPhoto: Getty Images