Unconscious bias in the workplace

As we continue through 2022, there appears to be no quick fix to the staffing shortage that has plagued Central Otago and beyond in recent years, with post-pandemic staffing levels leaving many businesses teetering on the brink of survival.

In today’s age we’ve become accustomed to seeing “staff wanted” adverts for workplaces that claim to be dynamic, enthusiastic, and energetic environments. Many of them are fabulous businesses however, these very words make us think of younger people, they’re not typically associated with anyone over the age of 50.

On balance, many of the roles advertised would be of a skill and pay level that we might not necessarily think an over 50-year-old would be interested in however, that doesn’t mean we’re right and whilst some roles can be physically demanding, there are plenty of 20-somethings that would struggle with a hard day of “labour” so, why don’t we just say, “physically demanding”? I know plenty of 60-year old’s that would run rings around most people and wouldn’t feel excluded by that requirement!

When Google launched its Human Capital program back in the 1990’s with a strange new focus on people rather than outright business and processes, businesses from banking to manufacturing and farming have needed to up their game to attract top talent to the workplace by focusing on “intellectual capital”. 

Intellectual capital includes competence, knowledge, values, and innovative potential of individuals within the organisation.

Human Capital also focuses on the well-being of the individual and as we progress through our careers, our needs and wants change in line with the lifestyle we desire.

Whilst many people over 50 have strived throughout their careers to reach success, many have also achieved everything they set out to do and no longer want the stress of owning a business, managing multiple departments and staff or, earning the big bucks because, they’ve already been there, seen it, done it and have now opted for a balanced lifestyle over hectic pressure and stress or, simply always preferred to be a “do-er” than a “visionary”. 

The initial Google generation ARE the over 50’s who have come to value more than just money and responsibility in the workplace, they want well-being too, both in the workplace and at home. 

Whatever the reason that an over 50-year-old is sitting in front of you requesting that you hire them, consider the competence, knowledge, values, and innovative potential of that person within your business, before you consider their age.

Would your business benefit from this over-qualified or over-experienced person’s competence, knowledge, values, and innovative potential? Would your other staff benefit from learning from a team member such as this? Can your business afford not to take that kind of opportunity?

Challenging our unconscious bias in the workplace can help us to make better decisions for our businesses by bringing diversity to the workplace and encouraging innovation through multiple perspectives that reflect our customer bases.

So…… what’s the average age of your last staff hires? Contact us for futher information and help.