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Never Underestimate the Gray-Haired Engineer

MET • Dec 28, 2015

It has always amazed me that many consulting firms “appear” hesitant to hire engineers with 40+ years of experience. With a sensitivity to age discrimination laws, companies find a variety of seemingly legitimate reasons for rejecting solid, experienced candidates.

 

Often, these engineers can be the best employees to join the team. Many have survived market downturns, understand commitment to a project, know how to navigate a difficult client and they play nicely in the sandbox with others.

 

Here are some thoughts to review next time an experienced candidate’s resume graces your desk:

 

1. Studies prove that older employees show a loyalty to employers that exceeds that of their younger counterparts.

2. Older staff are excellent mentors; they have usually seen it all (at least once!).

3. Experienced staff tend to be more patient when dealing in adversarial situations.

4. Multiple reports show that total sick days per year of older staff is lower than that of other age groups.

5. Older employees bring a cell phone full of contacts of other potential employees!

 

Don’t be quick to scan for the graduation date on a resume. You could be missing your next “Employee of the Month!”

The Metzner Group Blog

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