Unemployed people over the age of 55 are having a harder time in the labor market, the trade union CNV found in a survey of 1,900 members over the age of 45. Despite the widespread staff shortages, older job seekers still often hear “no” or don’t get invited for an interview at all, the trade union said.

About 15 percent of the respondents were looking for a job themselves. Over 40 percent said that they receive many rejections on job applications, especially in the commercial sectors. 16 percent of job seekers over 55 hadn’t been invited for a single interview, and 37 percent noticed that they were having a harder time finding work than a year earlier.

CNV chairman Piet Fontuin called it crazy that employers are hesitant about hiring older workers while the labor market is facing shortages on all sides. “The Netherlands is at a standstill in some areas due to a lack of personnel,” he said. “It is, therefore, disappointing that it is so difficult for older employees to find work. They are desperately needed, but are often sidelined.”

“This group brings a wealth of experience, can provide mentorship for younger employees, and is also loyal to their employer,” Fortuin said. The trade union pointed out that the state pension age keeps rising. A 55-year-old hired today can work another 12 years before reaching retirement.

CNV’s survey showed that 77 percent of older workers are willing to invest in extra training and develo[pers. “The prejudice of employers that this group invests too little in itself can be thrown in the trash. People want to invest in keeping their knowledge and skills up to date. But that is only possible if they are given the opportunity to do so and participate in the labor process.”

“We can no longer afford this mentality,” Fortuin said, pointing out the Netherlands’ aging population. “Judging people by their age is completely unfeasible.”

https://nltimes.nl/2024/07/16/older-workers-struggling-dutch-labor-market