Age bias needs to change

Report advises change of approach to capitalise on ageing workforce

Companies need to change their approach to recruitment to capitalise on the ageing workforce in the UK, according a report by Taleo and The Age and Employment Network.

The report found that many companies retain significant biases and misconceptions about recruiting older workers.

Alice Snell, Taleo research vice-president, says: “Retaining the traditional preference for recruiting only from younger age groups will lead to a weaker workforce than competitors who tap into the older worker talent pool.

“Organisations can gain a significant advantage from adopting a skills-based approach to recruiting that creates a level playing field for older workers.”

The report advises companies to drive their selection process based on skills, consider re-skilling or up-skilling new or existing employees, and word job opportunities carefully.

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