The Value of Workers over 50: Challenging Myths and Embracing Experience

In today’s job market, the value of workers over 50 is often overlooked. Contrary to outdated myths, these experienced professionals bring a wealth of knowledge, adaptability and dedication to the workplace. Drawing on recent Michael Page surveys of thousands of job seekers in continental Europe, this article aims to shatter common stereotypes and show why businesses should be keen to tap into the diverse talents and rich experience of older employees.  

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Debunking old myths about workers over 50 

It’s often thought that workers over 50 might shy away from training and lack drive. But let’s look at the facts: a striking 62% of older employees say they’re actively chasing career development opportunities. This statistic challenges the notion of a motivation gap and highlights the eagerness of workers over 50 to stay relevant and make meaningful contributions.  

Then there’s the stereotype of older employees being stuck in their ways. Again, our data tells a different story. Many workers over 50 embrace today’s working style, including hot desking, with only a small 16% not keen on the idea – a figure that’s actually lower than that of their younger counterparts. Almost half (44%) of older employees say that resistance to change is one of the top two mistakes a manager can make, knocking down the notion they are change-averse. 

Lastly, let’s tackle the assumption that older employees are a costly business investment due to their salary and benefits expectations. It’s true that older workers expect to be well compensated for their skills and experience. On the other hand, our research shows that workers over 50 tend to seek salary increases less often than other age groups, suggesting a more balanced and realistic approach to compensation.  

Celebrating the distinctive strengths of workers over 50 

What makes older employees stand out? It's their unique strengths, honed over years of experience: 

• Collaborative spirit: A notable 68% of older workers cite informal interactions as a key reason for office visits, but this isn't to say collaboration is limited to physical presence. Their desire for connection drives a friendly, collaborative atmosphere, whether in person or through virtual channels 
• Ease of management: The experience of older employees translates into levelheadedness, making them easy to manage. They have a clear vision of what they want in their careers and a deep understanding of workplace dynamics. 
• Ready to make an impact: Older professionals often favour smaller companies, valuing the ease of decision-making and the intimacy of a human-sized work environment. But this isn’t about workers over 50 ‘staying in their comfort zone’. It’s because they want to make a tangible impact, using their experience and skills to the fullest. 
• Substance over style: Older employees are less demanding in certain aspects, such as the need for luxurious offices or extensive team-building activities. Instead, they place higher value on company transparency and autonomy in their roles. They tend to prefer meaningful, substantial workplace benefits over flashy perks. This attitude is a huge plus for any company looking for a steady and dedicated team. 

Understanding the career goals of older employees 

Beyond debunking myths, it's crucial to understand the aspirations of workers over 50. As mentioned above, more than six in 10 are focused on career development, while just over half (53%) prioritise healthcare for them and their families. This shows they’re far from “settling” – they’re eager to learn more and grow in their careers, challenging the idea they’re just coasting towards retirement. 

The approach of workers over 50 to work-life balance is also in step with modern trends. When it comes to working from home, 37% of older employees are comfortable doing so for two days a week, while 28% are open to three days a week, showcasing their adaptability to flexible working styles. 

Career management and advancement at 50+ 

A notable 56% of older workers say they have a clear idea of where they want to go in their careers, showing an appetite for leadership and new challenges. In fact, their enthusiasm for leadership roles often surpasses that of younger colleagues, making them an invaluable resource for mentorship and team development.  

Despite these strengths, a striking 61% do not have a mentor but are open to the idea. This represents an opportunity for employers keen to attract talented older workers: why not introduce mentorship programs tailored to this demographic, including reverse mentoring? In this setup, younger employees assist more senior colleagues in areas like technology, creating an environment where everyone learns from each other and mutual respect flourishes. 

Partner with Michael Page to explore new talent pools 

Wrapping up, it’s clear that older employees aren’t just capable – they’re uniquely equipped to contribute significantly to your business. By seeing through the stereotypes and recognising the value of workers over 50, you can enrich your talent pool and drive growth.  

If you would like to talk to one of our expert consultants about how (enter brand) can help you explore new talent pools and find the right professionals for your organisation, get in touch today! 

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