Are employment services working for older job seekers? No
For many of us older workers the question of “are employment services working for older job seekers?” The answer is a resounding No.
Government funded employment services are not working for older job seekers?
Older job seekers are too old to work, too young to retire. Longer periods of unemployment for older workers cause increased financial issues before retirement. Their retirement outlook regarding their financial wellbeing may not be as good as they would have desired. As they need to use their saving to survive until they become eligible for a pension.
A very interesting article published on The Conversation website today identifies several issues with the current Federal government-funded employment services for older workers. Older workers are (defined as being 45 or older), under the current Jobactive contracts. These services are not working for the older job seekers or for employers.
Considering the pension age is rising to 67 by July 2023 the reality of working longer will be a challenge for many of us.
Ageism is alive
Potential employers often perceive older workers through a stereotypical ageism attitude that hinder employment opportunities. Older job seekers with good work histories in various managerial and professional roles are often perceived as a threat. Younger less experienced managers can feel threatened or intimidated by the experience that a new mature job applicant can bring to a role. Though short-sighted it appears to be the reality. They often use a range of euphemisms in an interview or whenever you seek feedback. From yet another unsuccessful interview. There is a range of ageism phrases but some of the common ones include:
“you’re over-qualified for this position”, or
“this is a fast-dynamic workplace”, and
“we’re looking for someone with more experience with new ideas”.
Aghhh, 15 -20 years’ experience is obviously not enough! These terms reflect the existence of ageism stereotypes held by many employers and HR consultants.
Will the Government act?
The government must examine what’s wrong with the current employment services. What is now being offered under the Jobactive contract is not working? Also, the issues within the wider community in relation to employing mature workers. Though there are several initiatives being trialled such as the Career Transition Assistance Program in limited locations.
It is clear that the current paper-driven KPI requirements that Jobactive providers must comply with have been highlighted as an issue. An increasing number of older workers within our community when they are seeking help from job providers do not feel they are adequately helped to find employment? Rather they are required to complete paperwork rather than assisted with finding a job.
The Government have only until 2020 till the next Jobactive contract period to implement changes to improve the current service shortfalls besetting older job seekers. An overall understanding of the issues facing older job seekers has to be taken into account. This is essential for any changes to the government employment services strategy to work.
Current community stereotypical ageism attitudes towards older workers and job seekers have been highlighted as a major issue. This matter needs to be considered for any new strategy for improvement to work. This issue must be addressed. I hope someone is listening and willing to act.
