Engaging Older Workers

Over 50’s are the fastest growing segment of the work force. There are three general categories to describe how many see themselves:

• Youthful – feel 10 + years younger than their chronological age – they score higher on work engagement, productivity and organizational citizenship. Consider inviting them to provide value in leadership and mentoring roles.

• Veterans - lower motivation/engagement. Respond by adjusting workload or time pressure, providing more autonomy, or flexible scheduling to reduce the pressure to exit the workforce completely.

• Matures – motivated and doing well, but less engaged than the “Youthfuls” group – consider broadening the reward system to meet the changing needs of workers, including appreciation, recognition, and reward options.