Changing the perception of younger workers towards older workers: workers under the age 50 imagine themselves as older ones

Abstract

Purpose – Projections of demographic trends worldwide show that the number of older workers in the workplace is increasing. Older workers possess knowledge which is crucial to company competitiveness. Considering this, companies should make full use of this valuable resource. The purpose of this paper is to determine how current younger workers imagine themselves when they become workers over 50. Design/methodology/approach – Data were gathered via questionnaire survey among workers under 50; statistical analysis methods were used. Findings – Younger workers consider themselves to be a future valuable resource for their company. They are also positive about taking part in training and development as they get older. However, they have rather negative opinion about remaining in the organization beyond the retirement age, even on a part-time basis. Research limitations/implications – The paper relies on questionnaire survey from a relatively small number of respondents (35 workers under 50). Presented survey is part of an ongoing study investigating older workers’ knowledge. Practical implications – Workers over 50 possess knowledge which is necessary to the company's development and success – therefore it is important to start paying interest to older workers and appreciation of their knowledge. Social implications – Current younger workers think positively about their future status as an older worker. This outlook could contribute to an improved quality of life for older workers and socially responsible management practices. Originality/value – Paper supports a positive view of older workers which is based on their knowledge and qualification. There have been limited research studies focusing on older workers’ knowledge and on the connection between human resource management and knowledge management.