Older workers, it is forecast that 900,000 Canadian older workers will leave their jobs in the next three years, for different reasons. Will you join the "grey resignation" or continue doing work that you enjoy?
Consequences for Employers
This departure from the workplace could have many negative impacts for employers, including:
Loss of skills and knowledge
Insufficiently trained younger workers
Inability to attract skilled workers to replace retirees
Decrease in quality of service
Potentially having to pay higher wages to attract workers
Older Workers, Decide What's of Value for You
You have the ability to prevent or minimize some of those negative impacts, if you choose to continue working. It's a compromise: in return for continuing to offer your skills and expertise, you expect your employer to take care of your financial, social, physical, and professional needs, by offering you:
Reduced hours
More breaks
Flexibility in schedule, type of work, location of work
A physically comfortable and safe work environment
Accommodation for any specific physical needs you have
Continuous learning and training to help you develop in areas that are or will be new for you
Opportunities to highlight your knowledge and expertise in a different role, such as consultant, mentor, trainer
Competitive salary and benefits
Everything else that is important to you
Conversation is Crucial
Older workers, you need to have a conversation with your employer to ensure they are prepared to provide what's important to you, in exchange for your ongoing support and loyalty.
If no one has discussed retirement with you yet, take the lead and communicate your expectations, so both of you are in agreement and can start preparing now.
On Your Own Time is Here for You
Older workers, if your plan is to continue working in a new type of job, On Your Own Time can help you prepare. Contact us for copies of the Older Worker Preparation Guide and the Planning and Preparing for Working in Retirement Questionnaire.
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