Article by Ceri Wheeldon

Changing perceptions of the over 50s in the workplace is crucial as we face the consequences of living in a society with an ageing population.
With life expectancy increasing along with the increase in age for eligibility for state pensions and the scrapping of the default retirement age, we are all expected to work longer- but how do we ensure that employers recognise the value a mature workforce can bring to an organisation?

Remaining employable over 50

First of all we all have a responsibility as individuals to ensure that we remain employable.
• Stay healthy – we may not have youth on our side but we can ensure that by living a healthy lifestyle we can improve our employability well into our 50s and 60s
• Ensure skills are up to date – update your skills, take courses, stay up to date with technology.
• Stay positive- demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role- and life!
• Be open minded and prepared for change
• We have to show that we are not ‘winding down’ but still have ambition
• Show that we are good team players and can work across the generation

The benefits to the employer in employing someone over 50

• Reliability – recent statistics show that the over 50s take far fewer ‘duvet days’ and have a strong work ethic
• More experience to bring to the table
• Life experience enables the 50+ to cope well in a crisis and solve problems
• Empty nesters are not tied to taking their annual vacation during school holidays hence more flexibility
• Someone who has the ability to communicate across the generations
• Great mentors for younger employees
The over 50s have a wealth of experience to offer industry and commerce- let’s not let the UK waste such a valuable resource

Photo credit: Ambro

Ceri Wheeldon

Ceri is Founder and Editor of Fabafterfifty.co.uk She is a frequent speaker at events and in the media on topics related to women over 50 , including style and living agelessly. With 20+ years experience as a headhunter Ceri also now helps support those looking to extend their working lives.

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