Yesterday was the first day of Fall and we celebrated International Day of Peace, officially known as World Peace Day. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the United Nations General Assembly’s adoption of the ‘Declaration and Programme of Action on a Culture of Peace.’
In that declaration, the United Nations’ most inclusive body recognized that “not only is the absence of conflict, but also requires a positive, dynamic participatory process where dialogue is encouraged, and conflicts are solved in a spirit of mutual understanding and cooperation.”
Happenings in the workplace…..
We’re living longer and retirement boredom on a budget isn’t that appealing to well, anyone. One of the biggest challenges those who are close to retirement, or those already retired – is finding and maintaining purpose. In the dynamic landscape of today’s workplace, a trend is emerging – the increasing presence of older workers. Contrary to traditional retirement norms, many individuals are choosing to extend their professional careers, leading to a surge in both the numbers and earnings of older employees.
Let’s dig in to understand what’s driving this trend.
With advancements in technology and changes in societal attitudes towards retirement, older workers find themselves equipped with the skills and experience necessary to thrive in contemporary workplaces. Employers, recognizing the value of this demographic, are actively seeking to retain and attract them.
Roughly one in five workers ages 65+ (19%) were employed in 2023 – nearly double the share of those who were working 35 years ago. (Source: Pew Research Center).
As demographic shifts continue, the proportion of older workers is growing steadily. According to recent labor market reports, the number of workers aged 55+ has been steadily increasing over the past decade. This underscores the fact that older individuals are not only capable but are also choosing to remain actively working. Metro areas in the South attract a high concentration of baby boomers, offering lower taxes and sunny skies.
For those unsure how to jumpstart their return to the workforce, begin by focusing on upskilling and cultivating your network. Engaging in your broader community generates a ‘force multiplier’ effect and is key to any job search!
In addition, intergenerational workplace connections are thriving. A recent finding from LinkedIn’s Workforce Confidence Survey found that more than half of gen zers and millennials say they seek mentors. With decades of experience under their belts, boomers possess a wealth of industry specific knowledge and expertise – invaluable to the younger workforce, and employers. As industries become increasingly competitive, companies are investing in experienced professionals who can navigate complex challenges and bring a strategic perspective to the table.
In conclusion, as the workplace continues to evolve, embracing the skills of older individuals is not just a benefit but a necessity – for fostering innovation, diversity, and sustainability in today’s market.