90% of older workers upskill to stay relevant: Resume Now survey

CALIFORNIA, UNITED STATES — A Resume Now survey of nearly 900 Americans aged 50 and above reveals that older workers are committed to staying relevant in today’s workforce, with 90% actively pursuing job training.

Despite this discrimination, which they experience due to their age, these professionals still make investments in themselves so that they can be productive in their jobs.

Older workers investment in upskilling

The survey reveals that 51% of older workers paid for their own upskilling, while 39% said their employers covered the cost of the training. 

This recent self-investment reflects the willingness of older employees to stay current with emerging skills and technologies, despite their employers not providing the necessary resources.

It is evidenced by the fact that older workers are not waiting to be offered opportunities to upskill, as they are willing to fund their own upskilling.

They are instead making calculated choices on their own to make their careers viable in a workplace that is constantly changing. It is an attitude towards lifelong learning, not only to preserve a job but to stay relevant and have an agency of one’s own in the labor force. 

Flexibility, remote work are key to retaining workers

With further adaptation, several older employees are demanding flexible working arrangements to extend their careers. 

The survey estimated that 56% of respondents indicated that flexible work hours were a significant factor in enabling them to remain in employment longer. Moreover, 49% also believe that remote or hybrid working should support them in their jobs and provide a work-life balance, as well as accommodation, to engage older workers.

In addition, 30% of respondents would be able to work in less physically demanding jobs to remain productive in the workforce. It represents a larger shift towards the establishment of more flexible and accommodating working environments that recognize the special needs of an aging workforce. 

Such changes are not merely benefits, but rather essential modifications to ensure that older employees can remain productive and happy in their workplace.

Aged workforce’s deep commitment to their careers

To many aged professionals, work is an extremely important aspect of their existence. The survey revealed that 91% of respondents regard their work as meaningful, and 89% of them believe their career is part of who they are. 

This inclination toward their work confirms that the older generation of laborers does not merely await their retirement, but they are engaged in their occupation and are ready to work. 

Companies that fail to appreciate the value and dedication of this generation may miss out on the experience, knowledge, and loyalty the older generation can offer.

To encourage the extra participation of older professionals, companies should create inclusive workplaces where the older workforce is motivated to make a difference and contribute to the success of their organizations.