Profit From True Workplace Diversity. Include Us.

By Karen and Erica 

You cannot have diversity if you exclude those over 60 from the workforce. Especially now that intellectual labor has largely replaced physical labor. A less diverse workforce will be less profitable. So diversifying seems a no-brainer.

Age diversity seems especially important now that there are no longer enough younger folks to fill the available jobs. Look at Maine, desperate for workers. Look at recent employment numbers. We know there are issues with those numbers but the closer we get to full employment the more we will need to make use of people who are really good at jobs they did for decades. They can maximize the productivity of the younger employees.

The growth rate of working age adults is shrinking. For the first time since the 1950’s, our working age population is in decline and the 65+ population is skyrocketing. And, for the first time in a long time, potential growth numbers are dropping from 3% to 2% because of the combined effect of fewer workers and lower productivity. That is a problem for everyone since a decline in numbers and productivity of the workforce inevitably results in a decline in economic growth.

It’s also an opportunity. The typical 65 year old today is about as healthy as a 58 year old was four decades ago.  Experience has made the seasoned worker more efficient and effective and therefore more productive. According to at least one study, at least 30% of retirees want to continue to work in some capacity.  Very simply, we are a large and productive workforce ready to be engaged. What more do you need to know?

It’s time to see us--all of us--as part of the solution to a national problem. The young can run faster, but the old know the shortcuts. Let us show them to you.