Age discrimination often leads to the misconception that older employees are less capable, but performance is more about mindset and the company culture. A growth-oriented mindset, which emphasizes continuous learning and adaptability, is essential for success at any age. Companies that foster an inclusive and supportive environment empower all employees to thrive, regardless of their age. By prioritizing skills and contributions over age, organizations can harness the diverse experiences of their workforce, enhancing overall productivity and retention while creating a culture that values everyone.
Despite protective legislative measures, age discrimination in the workplace is still all too common. Just last year, SHRM research found that 30% of workers experienced age discrimination at some point in their careers. With 8.5 million jobs to fill and only 6.5 million people unemployed, companies are still reluctant to hire outside their preferred age group. But why? Older workers bring invaluable benefits: extensive experience, problem-solving skills, strong work ethics, and professionalism. They offer diverse perspectives, historical insight, and tend to have lower turnover rates. As our population ages and workforce shortages become more pronounced, it's crucial to recognize that tapping into this often-overlooked talent pool could be key to filling critical roles. Learn more about the challenges faced by seasoned professionals when seeking a new position: https://shrm.co/mc0y4i #HR #HumanResources #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #WorkEthic #EqualOpportunity