Time With Sands – Gray is the New Green

I’m interested in your book Gray is the New Green. Can my business truly benefit from hiring older workers?

— John A.

The short answer is yes, your business will benefit from hiring older workers.

What I am referring to when I say “Gray is the New Green” is an emerging economy as a result of an aging populace. Gray relates to the color of the hair of those who are aging, while green is associated with the burgeoning opportunities and development that can come from the aging of business and the business of aging.

Older generations are essential for businesses because they have become skilled navigators of uncertainty. They have resilience, agility, know-how and knowledge. Diversity, work-life balance, and meaningful work are instrumental to success and happiness for all generations. The organizations that will thrive will be multigenerational, utilizing matures and boomers to mentor and collaborate with the upcoming four generations.

Currently, the “Silver Ceiling” has businesses losing their critical base of “knowledge workers” in the older adult population. But it’s more cost-effective to retain and hire mature workers than it is to hire, orient, and train new, younger workers. Businesses that embrace flexible work schedules—including job-sharing, telecommuting, and shorter workweeks—can help turn US workplaces into age-friendly spaces.

The Great resignation is leaving an opening for Great Return, enriching the workforce with the whole mix of generations to make sure we swerve when whole infrastructures are crumbling or wasting away their revered status.

Trailblazers in every phase of the life continuum will be the ones who lead and light the way in this new economy for higher profits, greater sustainability, and robust organizations and communities.