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Some smart employers are making their workplaces age-neutral with respect to their policies and benefits to attract and keep older workers. What does age-neutral mean? All opportunities and rules apply to all employees, regardless of how old or young they are.
Why is this so important? Forward-thinking employers know the US workforce will soon face labor shortages: When the Baby Boomers begin to retire in 2011, there won't be enough younger workers to replace them.
These employers use creative recruiting to find qualified employees of all ages. They hire, evaluate and promote employees in age-neutral ways. And they train managers, supervisors and workers on how to benefit from age diversity.
Clues to Look For
If you're wondering how age-neutral a current or potential employer might be, look for these clues to find the best employers for workers over 50:
Recruiting
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Job ads mention maturity, good judgment and work experience.
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Ads appeal to workers of many ages.
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Ads are placed in publications, on Web sites and with agencies used by job seekers of many ages.
Training
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New-skill training is offered to workers of all ages.
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Different kinds of skill training are available: classroom, individualized, mentoring, coaching and job rotation.
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Employer strongly encourages older workers to take part in all training.
Health Benefits
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In addition to health benefits that include prescription drugs, employer offers extras like long-term-care insurance and short- and long-term disability insurance.
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Wellness is emphasized with health screenings, fitness programs and special classes.
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Benefits packages are flexible to appeal to workers of different ages.
Pension Plans
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Employer contributes to employee retirement accounts.
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Longer-term employees have defined-benefit pension plans.
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Retirement savings incentives are offered, such as profit sharing or stock options.
Alternative Work Arrangements
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Workers of all ages can use flexible schedules, such as flextime, telecommuting and periodic time off for family caregiving responsibilities.
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Phased retirement lets older workers decrease work hours gradually.
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Retirees can return to work part-time when needed.
How Can You Benefit from Age-Neutral Trends?
These age-neutral benefits can help you make the transition to the next phase of your work life. And they can keep you at work when your employer needs you.
If you are searching for a job, use this list to negotiate with a new employer. Ask about age-neutral benefits before you sign on.
If you are already employed, use this list to suggest and request age-neutral benefits. Refer your employer to the AARP resources below for more information. The examples might be just what your company needs to start making some changes.
