There’s so much stigma about mature workers that sometimes jeopardises their chances to stay in the workforce. They are too traditional, cannot accept change, or are too hard-headed to receive anything from younger workers. As a result, they can’t keep up with the ever-advancing technology and trends and end up being replaced by someone younger.
Some mature workers would also feel awkward reporting to someone younger than them. Similarly, the younger workers may need more experience or confidence in commanding their seniors due to age gaps.
The changing economic landscapes have increased the number of layoffs, particularly for employees aged 50 years and above. The stigma of mature workers needing to be updated or in touch with the modernisation of work processes only adds to the reason for retrenching.
However, mature workers are known for their tenacity, experience, knowledge and loyalty. So there’s still a chance for them to stay relevant in the market. They need the confidence to challenge generational stereotypes and mindsets and learn how to navigate a multigenerational workforce.
In a multigenerational workplace, each generation of workers has different priorities in life, which may impact their perception of work. For example, Generation X are prone to career progression, while Generation Y focuses on work-life balance and family.
Mature workers must constantly be curious to learn new things and adopt an open mindset to remain competitive.
Interacting with the younger generations allows mature workers to learn new skills and knowledge for improved productivity and efficiency. Younger generations are naturally curious and willing to learn new technologies and trends. Through interaction with them, mature workers can pick up this knowledge and learn how to utilise it to remain relevant to their workplace or industry.
Change is inevitable, no matter how much we want to deny it. Work methods, structures and employees will change in the long run, especially with automation being introduced to every industry. Understandably, mature workers are worried about this change.
Mature workers must adopt flexibility to change and keep up with the employment trends and news to learn new skill sets, reskill or upskill themselves to remain competitive in the employment market. They must stay agile and open enough to consider jobs outside their known industry or roles.
Mature workers accumulate years of experience from their work, which they can utilise to teach the younger generations.
A mentorship programme can focus on soft skills such as team or conflict management, technical skills, and industry knowledge.
Mature can contribute as trainers in educational and skill-building programs arranged by their employers. They can share their valuable work experience, industry insights, and product or process knowledge with their colleagues.
Your job doesn't have to be limited to your assigned tasks. You can establish job security and make a lasting impression on your supervisors by going above and beyond what's expected. To determine ways to contribute more, reach out to your managers and ask if they require any assistance.
Additionally, offer to help your colleagues during busy periods and volunteer for extra responsibilities to demonstrate your dedication and exceptional performance.
Gaining a thorough understanding of your job responsibilities can improve your chances of gaining recognition from management. To do this, take a step back and examine how your work contributes to the company's success.
By aligning your efforts with the organisation's goals, you can meet your key performance indicators, showcase your achievements, and increase the likelihood of being noticed and appreciated.
You’ve probably heard this many times. Upskilling is essential in keeping yourself relevant. Nowadays, employers are looking for jacks of all trades instead of experts in one skill or department. While your workplace provides extra training, you can find courses outside your working hours that can add more value to yourself. You could also take classes on soft skills like leadership or communications to justify taking on more responsibilities in the office.
Experienced workers must maintain good health, stay updated with the latest hiring trends, and have a growth-oriented mindset. With the ongoing economic and job transformation, skill upgrading is crucial for all employees.
We strongly recommend mature workers continually upskill, re-skill, and deep-skill to enhance their employability. Therefore, whether you are a seasoned professional or a fresh graduate, taking charge of your professional development can open up numerous opportunities. There are job openings for mature workers worldwide and JobsLah can be the portal for your job search.
Remember, age should not hinder your growth and success.