Q&A with Bonaventure Senior Living: Tips for Managing the Workplace at 50 and Beyond
Bonaventure Senior Living knows that starting a new job is a bold move for senior citizens. Whatever the reason, jumping into a new job at 50, 60 or 70, requires calculated decision-making. Being the newest member of the organization—the new kid on the block—is both challenging and exciting. While it’s normal to face both difficulties and opportunities, the goal should be to make the most of all situations.
Q: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor statistics, 20 percent of Americans 55 and older will be working by 2015 as opposed to 13 percent in 2000. Why do you think so many seniors choose not to retire?
Bonaventure Senior Living: Seniors want to stay engaged. Many pick up work for a little extra cash, while others simply want a productive outlet for their spare time. Sometimes seniors need to work to pay the bills.
Q: What do seniors bring to a workplace?
Bonaventure Senior Living: Seniors bring a wealth of experience to a workplace. Most have overcome many challenges and have built up a tremendous skill set over the years.
Q: What’s one of the most important things seniors should do in a new workplace?
Bonaventure Senior Living: They should never feel embarrassed to ask questions—lots of questions. As the saying goes, “The ignorant question is the one that is not asked.”
Q: What is a big no-no at a new job?
Bonaventure Senior Living: While seniors have a lot of experience, they should never feel that they don’t have to keep up to date and apply themselves to new situations. My advice for them is to learn as much as they can about the company, and tackle new technologies and challenges.
Bonaventure Senior Living also says that trying to learn everything in one day is not realistic. They also remind seniors that they won’t always be the new kid; they can be the ones sharing their experience with the next new person who comes along.
Categories: Lifestyle