As older workers delay retirement and remain on the job, it's important that they look and act youthful. They should also show enthusiasm and exhibit a sense of energy.
As retirement funds continue to fall due to challenging economic times, older workers may rethink planned retirements. These workers will have to prove to their employers that they should remain on the job. John Challenger, CEO of Challenger, Gray & Christmas, the outplacement consultancy firm, provided the following advice to older workers:
Tell Your Employer Immediately.
If your employer expects you to end your service with the company soon due to retirement, she needs to know your plans have changed. Inform superiors immediately that you have decided to continue working. Your bosses may be interviewing for your replacement, if they have not found one already.
Be Likeable.
In some cases, workers nearing retirement begin to detach from their jobs and co-workers. Being disliked by someone in authority is the single most important reason people are discharged, not their lack of skills and abilities. You were liked when you were hired and you must maintain that kind of loyalty rapport with your employer. It will not continue automatically; you must consciously work at it. In the workplace, people fall out of favor if they become careless or overconfident about themselves. That is when you are most likely to make the mistakes that will downgrade you in the eyes of your supervisor. Do not let it happen. Mentally review what it is the employer liked about you when you were hired. Keep up those qualities.
Emphasize Past Examples Of Loyalty.
When you decide to tell your employer you do not wish to retire, you may have to outline why they should keep you on. Show you are still committed to your job; employers still need to feel that employees are 100 percent dedicated to the company.
Stress Relevant Experience
And Willingness To Expand.
Your employer should feel that you can continue your current position, as well as possibly taking on new tasks. It is important to convince your boss that age has nothing to do with learning new concepts and accepting new ways of doing things.
Demonstrate Your Flexibility
And Creativity.
You want to counteract stereotypes that suggest older workers do not have imagination. Talk to your employer about ways you can solve problems and develop ideas to make your employer more money or be more competitive.