“I’ve been shocked by how many skills have crossed from my former to current profession,” says Richard Williams, owner of a thriving small business in North Carolina. Years ago, he transitioned from being a university professor to managing his own pizzeria, and he discovered that leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills were just as valuable in his new endeavor. “Managing a classroom is not that different than managing a shift in a restaurant,” he says.
Williams also noticed another significant factor contributing to his success: the decision to include older workers as part of his team. “Younger staff are great and fast and creative, he says, “but they don’t have the perspective that someone with more experience has.”
Older workers are finding a growing number of opportunities across industries, from retail to manufacturing and consulting to customer service. This change is driven by a combination of workforce shortages, an aging population, and the desire of retirees to remain active or supplement their income.
For small businesses, the benefits of hiring older workers go far beyond filling manpower gaps. These employees bring unique advantages that can result in stronger operations and a more cohesive team.
Here are five key benefits of hiring older workers and why small businesses in all industries should consider bringing them onto their teams.
1. Flexible and Reliable Scheduling
Scheduling challenges are common for small businesses. Younger staff often juggle school, family, or social commitments, which can limit their availability or lead to frequent time-off requests. Older workers, however, tend to have more consistent availability and are less likely to call out unexpectedly.
They are often open to working shifts that others prefer to avoid, such as evenings or weekends. This reliability lightens the load on managers and helps ensure that customer needs are met.
2. Strong Commitment and Professionalism
Older employees bring a level of dedication that can have a stabilizing effect on the workplace. They typically take punctuality and compliance with policies seriously, minimizing disruptions to operations.
This sense of responsibility often extends to their longevity with a company. By staying with employers longer, they help reduce the costs and time associated with frequent hiring and training. Such steadiness is especially valuable for small businesses that need consistent manpower to thrive.
3. Advanced Communication and Interpersonal Skills
Years of experience in professional environments often make older workers highly skilled in communication, both with colleagues and customers. They excel in building relationships, resolving conflicts, and fostering a positive work culture.
These skills are invaluable when mentoring younger team members. Older employees can help new hires learn how to handle demanding situations, such as addressing customer complaints or managing high-pressure moments, setting a professional standard for the rest of the team.
4. Insider Knowledge of Key Demographics
Another compelling reason to hire older workers is their ability to connect with broader customer bases. Many small businesses cater to diverse age groups, and older staff members can bring insights specific to their peers.
This ability to pinpoint opportunities extends across sectors, from marketing to product development. A home goods retailer, for instance, might gain valuable feedback from older employees on designs that resonate better with older customers.
5. A Results-Oriented Approach
With years of experience behind them, older workers are adept at focusing on what matters most. During busy periods or unexpected challenges, they often prioritize tasks effectively to ensure smooth operations.
“As you age, you focus on what’s most important,” Williams says. “You thin out the noise.” This skill can benefit businesses during high-pressure situations, such as handling large projects or seasonal rushes.
An older employee might notice and address a customer’s urgent need or fix an overlooked error, ensuring the business meets its goals without compromising quality.
Building a Multigenerational Workforce
The benefits of hiring older workers are clear, but the ideal team often includes a balance of generations. Pairing the creativity and energy of younger employees with the experience and professionalism of older staff can create a dynamic and effective operation.
For small businesses, tapping into the potential of older workers is a practical solution to workforce challenges. It’s also a strategic move that can enhance the way your business operates, serves customers, and grows over time. Ultimately, it’s an investment in long-term success.
This article is adapted from a byline originally published on our sister site, Pizza Today. It was last updated here in July 2025.
