Could highlighting that you’re an age friendly employer help recruit the right staff for your business? What does it really mean, and how can you attract older workers? More than 500 UK employers have signed the age-friendly employer’s pledge, recognising the immense value older workers bring to the workforce.
Understanding generational differences on site
We know that it is great to support the next generation by offering young people a start in their career in construction, but there is sometimes an age divide in understanding, communication and standards with those new to the workplace and in their first job. Younger staff are often still developing confidence and workplace habits, and some may not yet see the value or long-term opportunities that a career in building can offer, which can affect how they approach learning and settling into the role.
Recognising the value of older workers
Recently several North England members have told us that they are turning to older workers for recruitment. These may be ex-service personnel, leaving a career in the army for civvy street, people looking to change career in their middle years, maybe coming out of teaching or office roles, and seeking a more fulfilling job working in a hands-on role in construction.
Older workers with no construction skills or few construction skills may make up for this with a great attitude to fitting in to your team, a strong willingness to learn, and a great overall work ethic. This is not an either/or choice – it is about attracting a wide range of candidates when you are recruiting and not missing out on an older demographic.
Creating an age-inclusive workplace
At any age, employees will need different types of support, and diversity friendly policies and approaches, but there are lots of case studies, toolkits, and information in a national campaign which can support you in attracting older workers, by displaying your credentials as an age friendly employer.
What is the Age-friendly Employer Pledge?
The Age-friendly Employer Pledge by the Centre for Ageing Better is a nationwide programme for employers in the UK who recognise the importance and value of older workers. Employers commit to improving work for people in their 50s and 60s and taking the necessary action to help them flourish in a mixed generation workforce.
How to access support and become an age-friendly employer
For builders who want to widen their recruitment pool and strengthen their workforce, the Age-friendly Employer Pledge offers practical support. Employers who sign up commit to taking simple, achievable steps to make their organisation welcoming to people in their 50s and 60s. In return, you gain access to guidance, case studies, and tools designed to help you improve recruitment, retention and workplace culture for a multigenerational team.
Signing the pledge is free, and employers receive regular updates, resources, and examples of good practice to help them make steady progress.
Go to the Centre for Ageing Better website to pledge your business's support today.
Authors
Carolyn Frank
Carolyn has wide ranging experience of helping small businesses to thrive, and is passionate about skills, heritage buildings, retrofit and inclusivity.
