More and more, the media is covering the pending arrival of baby boomers to age 60. According to the Wall Street Journal, business is already addressing the pending moves of the 76 million Americans born between 1946 and 64 - about a quarter of the US population. At first glance, it looks like an opportunity for business to replace aging and well paid workers with younger staff with less impact on the payroll.
But, they are finding it's not that easy. As they examine the replacements, business is finding a lack of work ethic and the drive for success found in boomers. And, we Grandboomers have experience gained from years on the job; a stability that means we'll show up for work in the morning, and a sense of courtesy that, unfortunately, is noticeably small in our successors.
What does it mean? Companies are now reevaluating the chance to save a quick buck. Certainly, there will be attrition, but much of it will come from the choice of Grandboomers to retire and perhaps work "for the fun of it."An article in the AARP magazine, notes that retailers and business-service companies are actively seeking workers 50-plus. Why? For the reasons mentioned above. We show up, interact well with the public, and have a great work ethic.
What's out there if you do get downsized from your current job? A career counselor, responding to the question posed by AARP says teaching, pharmacy work, medical assistance, retail sales, consulting and that old standby self-employment are good bets. Certainly from the "Help Wanted" signs we see around shopping malls, and the amount of classified advertising for medical jobs, these are valid areas.
For Grandboomers passing the big 6-0 who need the income from their jobs and fear they will be pushed out, all is not lost. For those who want to continue where they are, there may be a chance at the best of both worlds - part time work, or consulting to your present employer. Moving from your present occupation to another field may open up a more relaxed lifestyle for you, along with an opportunity to meet new people and make new friends. It's nice to know that there's cash value in your experience and work ethic...and a lot of employers who want your services.
© 2012 Created by Myles Bristowe.
