With the abundance of early retirement programs considered good practice in times of down-sizing and the trend of taking early retirement to enjoy the fruits of one's labour, mature workers have not been considered a hot commodity. Now, with an impending skills shortage and an aging population, businesses must recognize the need to keep mature workers and hire back retirees.

The most successful businesses will tap into the vast experience of this cohort and be smart about how they use it, such as using Mature Workers as consultants to train younger staff and as part-time support that need little ?ramp time?. Today?s Seniors live longer, healthier lives and are making positive contributions to the flexible organizations that recognize their potential!

Myths & Realities about Mature Workers

Myth: Older workers are biding their time until retirement
Reality: Many older workers want to continue to work

Myth: Older workers are less productive
Reality: Older workers can be as productive as younger  workers

Myth: Older workers will retire before the investment in training pays off in the long-term
Reality: The term for return on investment in training is getting shorter

Myth: Older workers are unwilling or unable to adapt to new technologies
Reality: Older workers have the ability to learn new knowledge and keep pace with younger workers

To find out more about mature worker myths and realities , visit Service Canada's website.

 

ThirdQuarter - Makes Skills Count!

Who?

ThirdQuarter is a national pilot project led by the chambers of commerce in B.C., Saskatchewan, Manitoba and the Atlantic Provinces.

What?

ThirdQuarter connects businesses and volunteer organizations with skilled Canadians aged 50 + who want to work during the third quarter of their lives.

When?

ThirdQuarter runs until March 2012

Why?

Canadians aged 50+ have work and life skills they want to use in flexible ways. Firms can draw on that experience to fill skills shortages

How?

You as a tourism employer can register at www.ThirdQuarter.ca

Give your company the ThirdQuarter advantage by hiring someone who wants to contribute to their community during the third quarter of their lives.

How do ThirdQuarters give you a competitive edge?

• They need less training
• They know what customer service is
• They are leaders and mentors
• They are open to flexible schedules

Resources and links for hiring mature workers...