NFIB

Seniors and Teens Can Be Valuable Assets to Your Business
01/ 22/ 2003

by Vicki Gerson

The next time you need a new employee, consider hiring a senior or teenager. There are numerous reasons why hiring from either end of the age scale can be beneficial to your business.

Senior Workers

Experienced older people can be an asset to your business whether you employ them as full-time or part-time workers. Many are looking for work because they need to earn extra income to supplement dropping retirement investments or Social Security. Many others, however, just like to keep active by working.

The next time you go to the grocery store, notice the number of senior employees. They may be bagging groceries or working the customer service desk. Large retail chains often employ seniors as greeters. In offices, many seniors serve as receptionists.

Why are so many businesses hiring seniors?

By and large, seniors are loyal workers. They show up for work on time. They are helpful to customers and are willing to spend time with them. They are usually willing to work for very reasonable pay. Because they often don’t have many obligations, seniors are also willing to work flexible hours. And their lifetime of experience can add expertise to your staff.

Teen Workers

There are over 27 million teenagers in America, and many of them are seeking employment. Any retail business owner with products aimed at the teen market needs to employee teenagers. Teens like to make their purchases from someone with whom they relate, and teen employees can give you their perspective on what teen shoppers are looking for.

There are other reasons to consider hiring a teenager at your business. Teen schedules tend to be flexible. Many don’t mind working weekends or evenings. They don’t demand a large paycheck and many work for minimum wage.

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