Human Resource Development and Older Workers: Stereotypes in New Zealand

Abstract

This article compares two New Zealand surveys conducted in 2000: one of workers aged 55 years and over, and one of employers. The issue of older workers captured respondents’ attention, with both studies receiving response rates of around 50%. The congruence of attitudes among older workers and employers regarding the efficacy of negative HRD stereotypes is a feature of the study. Older workers were in some agreement with employers that they were difficult to train, less willing to learn and afraid of new technology. Older workers saw provision of training as a concern, with 11.6% reporting discrimination with regard to training. Significantly, skilled older workers saw the provision of training as a signal by employers that they were to be taken as serious contributors.