Common misconceptions: Setting the record straight on workers over 55
We’ve all heard the tired stereotypes about workers 55 and older: they’re set in their ways, can’t get their heads around new tech, and maybe they’re not as sharp as they used to be. Plus — the myth goes — they cost a fortune in health care and salaries, and they’re hogging roles that younger, “hungrier” folks could be filling.
Retirement is often painted as the finish line, with workers hitting their mid-50s supposedly counting down the days until they can hang up their hats. There’s this mistaken belief that once people reach a certain age, they’re more interested in polishing their golf clubs than their résumés or performance at work.
But let’s shed some light on these outdated ideas. Years of research from the Stanford Center on Longevity tell us that older workers are very reliable, ace stress management, and are every bit as productive as their younger colleagues. Their deep industry knowledge and
life experience make them pivotal players in decision-making and problem-solving. Plus, their commitment and low turnover can boost team morale and underpin a strong company culture.
But it doesn’t end there. Representing a significant part of the U.S. workforce at 23%, the government expects this part of the workforce (55+) to only grow. Older workers also report being happier in their roles. “They are among the most satisfied with their job overall and with various aspects of their job, such as their relationships with their co-workers and their manager,” Kim Parker, Pew Research Center’s director of social trends research, said in an interview with Yahoo Finance. “They’re more likely to find work enjoyable and fulfilling, and less likely to find it stressful or overwhelming, compared with younger workers.”
Tech-wise, while it’s true that older workers weren’t born with a smartphone in their hands, it’s way off the mark to tag them as tech laggards. Many are eager to learn and adopt new tech tools, often merging time-honored and modern methods to bring fresh and useful insights to their teams. In fact, many of today’s top leaders in technology fall into this key 55+ demographic themselves.
