What do employers need to understand about the aging workforce?

What do employers need to understand about the aging workforce?

Employers need to understand that not all aging employees are looking to retire. The media has discussed, analyzed and warned employers of the impending mass exodus of Baby Boomers, and, as a result, employers are feeling pressure to build their workforce and to prepare for the potentially ill effects that could result from the loss of great talent and experience. Not all Boomers, however, are looking to retire and employers should be quick to take advantage.

Employers need to understand the priorities of the 50+ workforce. Lacking knowledge in this arena could be what leads a 50+ worker to retire even though it would not have been his or her first choice. Organizations can hang on to this on-the-brink-of-retirement talent by considering what it is that the aging workers want out of their jobs.
 
Employers need to understand that workers 50+ are interested in the following when it comes to work:
  • An environment in which their opinions are valued, and in which they can gain new skills and experiences;
  • The ability to choose their own hours, take time off to care for relatives and work from home;
  • An organization that allows people 50+ to remain employed for as long as they want to continue working;
  • The opportunity to have new experiences and learn new skills;
  • Access to good health benefits; and
  • The opportunity to work a reduced schedule prior to full retirement.
Source: Interview conducted by Wolters Kluwer Law & Business of Emily Allen, director, Workforce Initiative in the AARP's national office, Washington, D.C.

Reprinted with permission. © CCH

 What do employers need to understand about the aging workforce? Employers need to understand that not all aging employees are looking to retire.

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