This recalibration of the worker-boss relationship is the elephant-in-the-living-room subject when it comes to job opportunities for older workers. Surveys show that most baby boomers plan on working in their so-called retirement years -- but most want to work on their own terms. Where's the business case for making older workers happy?
AARP recently created a program with 13 major companies to support American workers aged 50 and over. Called the "Featured Employers Program," this initiative highlights companies that are committed to recruiting and keeping older workers. Home Depot, with more than 1,800 stores nationwide, heads the list, which also includes the Borders Group (which includes Borders Books and Music and Waldenbooks stores), Johns Hopkins Hospitals, Kelly Services Inc. and Walgreen's, a national drugstore chain with 4,700 stores.
But are the mid-level managers in these companies ready to deal with the mind-set of the Bonus Worker? When job candidates are plentiful, it's easy to imagine a boss throwing up her hands and saying, "Who needs an uppity codger who wants special treatment?"
To make it worthwhile for companies, older workers have to bring something extra to the job in exchange for flexibility. And many do, because of a lifetime of experience.
Chambers is an example of the value-added employee. He's really knowledgeable about tools and home improvement. That's how he got the job.
The day after he retired, Home Depot delivered a new heating system to his home -- but he knew more about installing the system than the technicians. When he pointed this out to the business office at Home Depot, he was invited to apply for a job.
At that time, Chambers was looking forward to a leisurely retirement. Six months later, he found himself talking a lot to his three dogs. He knew he had to do something outside the house. In September 2002, he got a part-time job selling tools at Home Depot. In a business with a lot of turnover, he's now a long-term employee. Customers ask for him by name. He gets outstanding marks on his performance reviews, he says. For the Christmas season two years ago, he built a model of a locomotive that children could play in while their parents shopped. Last year, he created a sleigh and reindeer.
Chambers brings experience and stability to the job. He plans his vacations in advance. He works through the busy holiday season. "As long as I'm enjoying the job more than not, I'll continue to come to work," he says. "At this stage of life, I'm not looking for hassle." He's looking for meaningful work and interaction with people. He's even become a role model. A few months ago, he recalls, the store manager said to him: "I envy you. When I retire, I want to be in your position."•
Are you in transition? Have you found your what-next? Are your primary relationships changing? Respond by e-mail to mytime@washpost.com. To send U.S. mail, see the address on Page F2; mark the envelope "My Time."
