While young professionals entering the job market may possess the strong tech and digital skills suited to today’s modern workplace, experience remains one of the most valuable assets an organisation can bring on board. This article explores the unique value that older employees offer and why overlooking them can be a missed opportunity.
The Value of Experience
Employers are finding that young workers often lack the critical soft skills required for workplace collaboration and efficiency. Older employees, regardless of their role, contribute valuable experience – from practical, hands-on skills to operational know-how and a better understanding of team dynamics. These interpersonal skills aren’t developed overnight, they grow through years of collaboration, which enables experienced employees to tackle complex challenges, solve problems and mentor colleagues to drive growth and success.
Legal Considerations
The Equality Act 2010 outlines nine protected characteristics to protect employees from discrimination, harassment and victimisation. Age is one of these protected characteristics which applies to individuals of all ages to protect them from age related discrimination. However, even though most employers will prioritise skills and capability when recruiting, age discrimination remains an issue. Organisations that overlook candidates in the later stages of their working life not only miss out on the wealth of experience they can bring but could even fall foul of the Equality Act.
Redundancy and the Role of Outplacement Services
The thought of starting over can feel daunting, particularly for those in the mid-late stages of their working life. During any redundancy situation, providing support through outplacement services can facilitate a smoother transition and acceptance of change. Outplacement provides career coaching, skills refreshers, job search advice and CV and interview guidance, highlighting experience and transferable skills to secure new opportunities and move forward with confidence. This type of support also benefits the employer as it demonstrates a real commitment to affected employees which can help improve reputation and mitigate risks.
Final Thoughts
Investing in experience and providing support during transitions benefits both your team and your organisation’s success. With the average retirement age rising, employers have access to a pool of highly experienced and capable talent. By considering older candidates, organisations can tap into this wealth of expertise to strengthen teams, drive business success and foster a more diverse and inclusive workforce that benefits all.
If you’re an employer navigating redundancy, EML provides expert redundancy support and outplacement services, helping you and your affected employees manage transitions smoothly and responsibly. Get in touch on 01942 727200 or email enquiries@employeemanagement.co.uk to find out how we can help.