ALT-1 Marketable Skills for the Middle Aged Worker
Yes, ageism does exist in the hiring process. The irony is that mature, middle aged workers have assets that are unique to their work histories. Younger workers hardly compare with the solid foundation most middle aged workers possess. The marketability of these skills is provable through the results they produce
1) Experience: Middle aged workers often come in to new positions with years, perhaps decades, of experience. They will require a shorter time to train if their experience is closely aligned with the job requirements. They understand the processes necessary to gain successful results in their chosen field of work.
2) Work Ethic: Middle aged workers will more than likely possess a well developed work ethic. They know how to work and how to best achieve the results needed. They won't procrastinate or fail to meet deadlines. This type of work ethic is one only gained after years of working so, once again, middle aged workers have uniquely positive skills to offer.
3) Reliability: Middle aged workers understand how important reliability is to their positions. They know that if they can't be counted on by their coworkers and supervisors they will be passed over for recognition. Unreliable workers are left out of important work processes because they are a bad risk for getting the job done. As workers mature they understand how important it is to be at work when scheduled and doing the work assigned in a timely fashion.
4) Ability to Collaborate: Mature workers have been exposed to more situations in the workplace and understand how important teamwork is. They know that the isolated employee is one who is ultimately felt to be difficult to communicate with and unaccommodating. They also know it pays to be well liked among their coworkers. Likable employees are those who are sought after for answers and information and are therefore more likely to garner recognition from supervisors for their helpful, collaborative approach.
5) Ability to Adapt: Middle aged workers, like middle aged people everywhere, are much more able to adapt to change. This may seem a contradiction but because the mature worker has seen such a variety of workplace scenarios they are better able to take things in stride and remain flexible. They may have seen similar situations throughout their work history and know exactly how to approach change.
As we work to stop ageism in the workplace one of the most important things to remember is the unique set of skills mature workers possess. A younger worker has yet to learn many of these skills simply due to not having worked long enough. The mature middle aged employee vastly out shines the lack of experience inherent with being a younger worker. The middle aged worker alongside a younger worker also has the opportunity to fulfill the valuable role of mentor as well as being an asset with all the other marketable skills they possess.
