Older workers wrongly shunned for jobs

Older people seeking work may find themselves being interviewed by people younger than their own children. It seems bosses and especially HR managers are reluctant to hire people older than themselves. They get round the age discrimination laws by saying "you are not likely to be a good mix with the team" which is new speak for 'you are older than us'.

I would ask employers - if you need experienced people, would you hire an older worker and if not why not?

Society is obsessed with youth and younger attitudes while the Human Rights Commission survey shows older survey participants, particularly women, feel that retail settings are geared to the needs of younger consumers, despite the fact that the older market often has a greater discretionary spending power.

A trend is also becoming evident, given share values and low interest rates for cash investments, of Baby Boom generation workers nearing retirement needing to work after 65.

Employers should be open to the notion that over 50s workers have a lot to contribute and a worker's age should be regarded as a positive for the business, not a stereotyped negative perception. And, part time options might suit both the worker and the business. An increasing trend I think.

The Age Discrimination Commissioner Susan Ryan has said we need to recognise that older Australians provide significant and very real economic and social benefits. For example, it is common in some other countries to see older workers in retail or food service establishments but not common in Australia.

There are jobs where younger people are the better fit, but not always. Our workplaces should be balanced, and a mixed age work force can bring stability to a business, and improve productivity. It's a question of balance.