Why age-inclusive workplaces matter: a guide for jobseekers

The population is ageing: according to population predictions, half of all adults in the UK will be over 50 years old by 2030. This will undoubtedly have an impact on how we work and how we look for jobs. And, importantly, how we think about age diversity in the workplace. The change is already happening. We’re seeing companies become more age diverse, with up to five generations working alongside each other.

Age-inclusive workplaces

As a jobseeker that’s good news, however old you are. We understand:

• Over 50s now make up nearly a third of the UK workforce, with numbers of older workers steadily rising. This is having an impact on things like the types of leave available to staff, and opportunities for training.
• Only one in five employers say they are looking at how to strategically manage an ageing workforce. That could mean a rethink on working practices in a whole host of areas.
• Nearly a quarter (24%) of companies admit they are unprepared for the likely increase in older workers. There’s a chance for employees to really stake a claim in how the businesses they work for grow.

Age-diverse workplaces can be very lively and thoughtful places to be. We know that generations have different ways of making sense of the world. And that’s the result of coming of age in different social, political, economic and technological contexts. This means there are many different ways of approaching problems and decisions. This diversity of thought can be leveraged for business success.

 

Jobs for older persons

The approaching demographic change, as the workforce ages, works well for everyone involved. Researchers say that between 2012 and 2022, there will be a 7.5 million person skills gap in the UK economy. That means retention of older workers will be vital. For employers, focusing on supporting workers to remain in the business brings increased loyalty and improved productivity.

On the other side, training and developing the next generation of workers can bring new ideas to a business. And a different perspective on how to explore and manage the issues facing an organisation. Changing the dynamic in a workplace can also help an employer to gain a greater insight into a new customer market.

 

Tips for finding an age-inclusive company

If you want to find a supportive age-inclusive employer:

• Check out the vacancies on the VERCIDA job search. They work with hundreds of top firms known for their commitment to diversity and inclusion at all levels.
• Think about the companies you regularly use, or see. Pay attention to the age mix of employees in these companies. Do you think your face might fit? Then why not enquire? The right job might be waiting for you.

We believe in working together to build a better working world. If you’re interested in finding a job with a socially responsible employer that cares about their workforce, search our database of available jobs today.