There have been many comments and analyses lately about how
employers should handle the emerging youngest generation, usually
referred to as Gen Y. But as the 77 million baby boomers begin
reaching 65 years of age this year, they will present some unique
challenges to employers.
On one side of the issue, there will be the continuing challenge
of making sure your work force retains sufficient employees with
critical skills and experience to benefit the operation. The
well-publicized problem created by the coming retirement of large
numbers of experienced air traffic controllers is an example. To
address this side of the issue, employers are taking various steps
to keep these valuable employees in their work force including
flexible work schedules, restructuring of job duties and
responsibilities, creation of consulting positions, and positive
reinforcement and encouragement.
