Experience has its advantages

Hiring the right employees is crucial to success. After all, we are only as strong as our weakest link. Successful businesses require a perfect mix of experience and skill to create a dynamic workforce. Older adult or mature applicants offer a blend of wisdom and insights that bring unique benefits to the team. Here’s why they should not be overlooked

CREDIT: This is an edited version of an article that originally appeared on Forbes

In the search for new employees, mature applicants can often be overlooked in favour of younger recruits. But while a young workforce has plenty to offer in terms of new ideas and fresh perspectives, for hiring managers, mature applicants provide an entirely different but equally valuable skillset.

Proven resilience

Wisdom comes with age – but more importantly, so does resilience. The business world is ever-changing and weathering the storms can require a thick skin. Mature applicants are often experienced in shifting landscapes and changing economic climates. This experience empowers them to navigate complex scenarios, make well-considered practical decisions, and foresee challenges before they materialise.

Experienced relationship builders

Effective communication is a cornerstone of any thriving business. As communication styles vary from generation to generation and between different stakeholders, it is imperative to have people on your team capable of bridging the gaps. Older adult employees often have experience of having communicated at different levels and through various mediums throughout their careers. A better understanding of effective communication, conflict resolution, and collaboration can significantly help to improve workplace relationships.

Bringing additional value

Mature employees may be quicker to onboard and train compared to their younger counterparts, who will require significantly more time investment to get to grips with a new industry. Mature team members can provide a wealth of knowledge and skills immediately deployable without the same intensity of training required. They are also able to provide guidance and support to younger colleagues, share insights, and assist in navigating challenges that less experienced team members will find highly valuable.

When you consider the dynamics required for a balanced and well-functioning work environment, embracing the benefits that the more experienced employee can bring will pay dividends to managers looking to improve the long-term success of their team.