Hiring When Your Budget's Tight

If your business’s profits declined during the pandemic, you may be looking for ways to build momentum. And that may involve hiring new employees. The challenge is to obtain the expertise that your business needs in the most cost-efficient way possible. Hiring an older worker may be the answer.

The Stability Factor

Recruiting, hiring and training new workers is an expensive venture. An older candidate who has already spent years in the workforce will tend to stay on the job longer than a younger employee whose goal is to follow the money. The experienced employee may be a more cost-effective hire, even though that person may earn a higher salary.

Experience Counts

Knowledge and critical thinking skils gained from many years on the job mean an older hire may need very little training to perform effectively at your business. The person may have had valuable experience working as part of a team and be willing to mentor younger staff, taking some of the burden off you and other managers and reduce the need for costly training programs.

Consider Flexibility

With their children grown, older workers may have fewer obligations, enabling them to focus more of their energy on the job. They may welcome flexible work hours and have the ability to work overtime to finish a project.

Potential Benefits Savings

An older hire may not need health insurance. By hiring someone who is enrolled in Medicare, your business will save money on costly benefits.

The Advantages of Old School

Older workers began their careers before email and text messaging were part of the workplace landscape, so they often have superior communication and people skills and strong professional networks. Their interpersonal skills may help build relationships with customers and vendors that will increase your business's revenue and improve the bottom line.

Need a Part-Timer?

An older worker may welcome the opportunity to work part time if your current budget won't support a full-time position. In addition to getting an experienced employee your company will save money on benefits, for which part-time workers typically won't qualify.