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Younger workers teach “old dogs” new tricks
27 Sep 2007
As the UK celebrates the first anniversary of the Employment Equality (Age) Regulations 2006, new research debunks traditional myths about age in the UK workforce. The research coincides with the launch of 'Wise Council', an online service from Jobcentre Plus that recognises by 2025, half of the UK's adult population will be aged 50 and over.
According to a study of older and younger workers commissioned by Jobcentre Plus, 40% of older workers in the manufacturing industry believe their younger colleagues teach them skills they previously did not have, whilst one third of younger workers believe older workers are more likely to work anti-social hours than colleagues their own age.
The findings debunk traditional myths about age in the UK workforce, and highlight the benefits of employing a diverse workforce for both employers and individuals.
Interestingly in the manufacturing sector, and contrary to overall national trends, over 10% of younger workers think their older colleagues are full of ideas, whilst older workers think younger co-workers are more likely to provide a good perspective.
Lesley Strathie, chief executive, Jobcentre Plus commented: “Both older and younger workers appreciate and learn from the qualities each brings to the workplace. It’s not always easy to get the mix right, which is why Jobcentre Plus advisers work closely with employers and candidates to match the right opportunities with the right people.”
