New research debunks traditional myths about age in the UK workforce

The findings of a survey commissioned by Jobcentre Plus lift the lid on the benefits of employing a diverse workforce for both employers and individuals. Across the board, the results show that working in a mixed aged workforce is important for both older (66%) and younger (65%) UK workers with all recognising the benefits of working with people of mixed ages.
Lesley Strathie, Chief Executive, Jobcentre Plus commented: “The research shows that having the right balance of age and skills can bring numerous benefits to establishing a complete workforce for both employers and employees. Both older and younger workers appreciate and learn from the qualities each brings to the workplace.” Perhaps unsurprisingly, the research shows that the first and foremost quality younger workers think their older colleagues bring is experience (94%) whilst reliability (66%) and understanding (63%) also featured highly. Comparatively, nearly two thirds of older workers are impressed by their younger co-workers ability to learn quickly, be flexible (61%) and give them energy (51%).
The research also reveals some interesting gender and regional variations in workplace perceptions. Whilst younger and older colleagues enjoy working together, women were more likely to give positive feedback about the qualities their co-workers bring to the workplace than men. Overall, despite differences in age, differences in attitudes and the contribution of different skills to the workplace, the vast majority (95%) of older workers enjoy working with their younger colleagues.

Alter Empirie / Forschung Sprache Englisch