It is not uncommon to hear a younger person say, "There are no jobs in this town. Nobody will hire me." And yet, every time I look in the newspaper, I see ads about open jobs. Why is it that some people cannot get one of those jobs?
Could it be that they are not prepared? Jobs are available for those who are prepared to work. There is such a thing as training, learning a needed skill and being willing to work.
Most seniors understand the meaning of work.
Here are just a few of the many possible reasons for hiring seniors to work in your business.
1. They are trained and talented. They have skills most companies need.
2. They are not afraid of work. They will tackle any job that comes along. They are willing to work and want to work.
3. Seniors are dependable. They understand the importance of the team concept. They will be on the job every day, on time, doing their job to the best of their ability.
4. They are serious about their work. They will not goof off. They will work all the hours they are paid to work.
5. Seniors, because of their years of experience, are resourceful. They can handle many of the problems that may arise on any job.
6. Sometimes they can work for less. They may need a job to supplement the shrinking buying power of their present income. They do not necessarily need a 40-hour-a-week job.
7. They are often available for temporary or seasonable jobs. Part-time jobs will satisfactorily reinforce what they receive in the form of a pension. It will help them maintain their normal standard of living.
8. A job often saves them from a boring life. It gives them something productive to do. They feel needed and wanted. They can make a difference for others, and a few hours of work each week can make a big difference for them.
9. They know how to meet, serve and be nice to others whether they be customers, fellow workers, clients, patients or guests. Many older people find a spiritual connection in their work. The words of the Apostle Paul have special meaning for them: "We are God's fellow workers ..." (1 Corinthians 3:9).
10. Seniors are good all-around workers. It gives them a feeling of self worth to have a paying job that enables them to help others. It does wonders for the self image. Nothing feels better than an opportunity to do what you are capable of doing.
Where can seniors work and make a real difference? What about public and private schools, in an office, customer service in a store, stocking shelves, being a substitute teacher, at the hospital, for a construction company, as a baby sitter, for a newspaper, answering the phone, making phone calls and dozens of other jobs.
In almost any circumstance, seniors can give you a helping hand. They can serve as a part-time employee until you are ready for a full time employee.
A lot of valuable people do not want to retire to a life of doing nothing. They have a lot of good years left. Give them a chance to work for you. Let them train someone to take their place some day.
Your most valuable hire this year just could be hiring an experienced senior worker.
Bill Ellis, former pastor of Peoples Church of God in Decatur, is a syndicated columnist.
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