Leading recruiter urges property industry ‘not to be ageist’
Sally Asling says hiring older candidates can bring many benefits, including years of property industry experience, as new research reveals many employers ignore those over 57 years old.
New research has revealed that the average age at which candidates in all sectors are viewed as ‘too old’ is 57 but a senior recruiter working within the property industry has called on estate agencies not to follow this approach.
The Total Jobs research also found that 42% of HR professionals feel pressured to hire younger candidates, 22% of over-50s omit their age from CVs and 25% hesitate to apply due to anticipated bias.
Older candidates can offer vast amounts of knowledge and experience.”
Sally Asling (main image), a director of ProFind Property Recruitment urges the owners of estate agencies to remember that older candidates offer vast amounts of knowledge and experience.
Asling asks: “Is 57 years old in lettings too old? Hell no! That’s approximately 35 years industry experience and that screams huge value to most hiring managers.
“Over the years, so much legislation has has been created that covers estaet agencies and while it can be learned there is no substitute for situational experience where knowledge is applied to real-life situations, and in housing this is people and their homes, it’s critical to get it right for both the tenants’ welfare and the landlords investment.
“The sought-after leaders in lettings and property management are those with this experience”
According to Asling, the key benefits of hiring older candidates include:
- Experience & Expertise: Older employees often have decades of experience, offering valuable insights, practical knowledge, and industry-specific skills.
- Strong Work Ethic: Many older workers have a reputation for reliability, discipline, and a strong commitment to their roles.
- Mentorship: They can serve as mentors, helping to train and guide younger team members.
- Stability & Loyalty: Older workers often seek long-term stability and are less likely to frequently change jobs.
- Problem-Solving Skills: With years of experience, they often bring mature, well-developed problem-solving abilities.