The job market is flourishing with low unemployment rates, which is making it increasingly difficult for businesses to find new talent. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate was just 3.5% in September 2019. The tight labor market has left recruiters scratching their heads, looking for new solutions to acquire talented employees. One option that many are overlooking is hiring retirees to fill job openings. This article will outline the benefits and debunk misconceptions about hiring retirees.
Retirees Considering Re-entering the Workforce
According to a recent report by Paychex, one in six retired Americans is considering coming back to work. This opens up a substantial opportunity to tap into the skillsets of those who are part of the highly qualified Baby Boomer generation. These individuals can be a significant benefit because of the experience, skills, and knowledge they have acquired over their lifetime.
Benefits of Hiring Retirees
One of the advantages of hiring retired individuals for positions is their availability. They are oftentimes willing to work part-time or temporarily, which offers the flexibility employers need in a labor market with limited candidates. Retirees’ experience and strategic thinking can allow employers to execute company objectives and vision. Bringing in a retiree, even on a limited basis, can enable businesses to proactively manage the talent shortage challenge.
Misconceptions About Hiring Baby Boomers
There are commonly held misconceptions about hiring Baby Boomers. One of the most significant misconceptions is that they may not be a long-term investment. However, many Baby Boomers are healthy and highly active, so it’s wrong to assume that they’re not committed to the workplace. The outdated image of the retirement age can also make it challenging to hire Baby Boomers for full-time work.
Perks and Benefits Desired by Baby Boomers
Remote work opportunities, employer-sponsored childcare, gym memberships, and wellness programs are the benefits that Baby Boomers are looking for, according to a recent survey by Harvard Business Review. Utilizing staggered work schedules that enable employees to work remotely can be the perfect solution for businesses looking to retain seniors. Employers must consider these benefits when trying to attract, retain, and motivate their employees.
Reskilling as Part of the Strategy
One reason businesses may be hesitant to hire retirees is their relative lack of technical skills. However, investing in technology skills through training and resources can increase the skills of retirees who are continually searching for ways to keep their minds active. Employers can also offer health and safety training to modernize their workforce’s skills to maintain productivity, safety, and compliance with changing regulations.
Work Schedule Flexibility
Employers should remember that flexible schedules can be desirable for retirees. It’s challenging to imagine a retiree returning to a 9-5 job as it may not suit everyone’s needs. Employers must remember that Baby Boomers are looking for opportunities to keep their minds active and benefit from a proper work-life balance.
Succession Plan
Utilizing senior leadership as a part of the succession plan can retain experienced employees who possess skills that may be difficult to replace. Employers can use these skills to enhance the onboarding process, bringing short-term value to businesses with lasting benefits.
In conclusion, hiring retirees can be an effective solution for the hiring gap that many employers are currently experiencing. Retirees have rich experience and valuable skills that can add significant strategic value to businesses. Employers should keep in mind that retirees need flexibility in their work schedules, along with benefits that meet their needs. Companies can invest in these employees by providing training to modernize their skills and meet the requirements of the modern workplace. It is time to embrace a new perspective on hiring, and retirees might just be the perfect answer to fill the current talent shortage.
