Reskilling older workers for new careers in tech
Leeds IT recruitment

In today’s rapidly evolving world of technology, it’s no secret that companies are constantly seeking out fresh talent to stay ahead of the curve.

However, there is one demographic that is often overlooked when it comes to recruiting for tech positions – older workers. With years of experience under their belts, these individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to the table. Yet, many of them feel left behind as technology continues to advance at a breakneck pace. The good news is that there is a solution – reskilling older workers for new careers in tech.

Programmer looking at lines of code on a screen

Reskilling refers to the process of retraining workers with new skills that are in high demand in the current job market. In the tech industry, reskilling older workers can effectively address the shortage of qualified candidates for certain positions. Here are some reasons why it makes sense to invest in reskilling older workers:

Experience matters

Older workers have a wealth of experience in various industries, which can be invaluable in the tech sector. Many of them have honed skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication, which are highly sought after in the tech industry.

Loyalty and Retention

Older workers tend to be more loyal to their employers and have lower turnover rates than their younger counterparts. By investing in reskilling older workers, companies can retain experienced staff and reduce the costs associated with turnover.

Diversity and Inclusion

Reskilling older workers can help to promote diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. By recruiting from a wider pool of talent, companies can benefit from a range of perspectives and experiences that can help drive innovation and growth.

So, how can companies go about reskilling older workers for new careers in tech? Here are some strategies:

Offer Training Programs

Companies can offer training programs that teach older workers the skills they need to succeed in the tech industry. These programs can include in-person training sessions, online courses, and mentorship opportunities.

Provide Flexibility

Older workers may have other responsibilities such as caring for family members or health issues that make it challenging for them to commit to a full-time job. Companies can provide flexibility in terms of working hours or remote work options to accommodate these needs.

Create a Supportive Environment

Reskilling can be daunting, especially for those who have been out of the workforce for a while. Companies can create a supportive environment by offering mentorship, coaching, and a culture that values learning and growth.

Reskilling older workers for new careers in tech is a win-win for both companies and employees. Companies benefit from a wider pool of talent, while older workers can continue contributing to the workforce and learning new skills. By investing in reskilling programs, companies can address the skills gap and promote diversity, inclusion, and retention in the tech industry.

We are pathfinders. Our team are bound by one purpose; finding the right opportunities for the candidates and contractors we engage with every day and enabling tech pathways for all.

Whether you are an experienced professional seeking a new opportunity, a recent graduate looking to take your first career steps or just want advice on how to get into tech… we’re here to help you find your path.

An article by Ben Taylor

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