Employers in Russia Embrace Job Seekers Over 50
In a significant shift in the Russian labor market, employers are increasingly showing loyalty towards job seekers aged 50 and above. According to a study by SuperJob, reported by RBC, 32% of men over 50 in Moscow are applying for management positions, while 14% of women in the same age group are also vying for these roles. This growing interest in older candidates has led to 44% of Russian employers expressing readiness to hire pensioners.
The recruitment landscape has become more challenging, prompting employers to adopt new strategies. They are not only investing in retaining current staff but also expanding their hiring efforts to include both younger and older applicants. Valery Ryazansky, Chairman of the Union of Pensioners of Russia, emphasized that many positions are now open for older individuals, particularly in fields that require experience and cannot be filled by younger migrants. He advocates for creating an environment where pensioners can find decent wages and work opportunities.
Mikhail Belyaev, an economic expert, highlighted the advantages of hiring older workers, noting that they often possess strong work ethics, discipline, and a commitment to continuous learning. This demographic, he argues, is not only capable but also brings valuable experience to the workplace.
Stress in Job Searching: A Shared Experience
While older job seekers are gaining traction, the overall job search experience remains fraught with stress for many Russians. A separate study by Rabota.ru and SberPodbor revealed that over 80% of job seekers experience stress during their search, with 57% feeling it constantly. The primary sources of this stress include the unpredictability of job search outcomes and the anxiety of waiting for employer responses.
The study also found that frequent rejections and high competition contribute to the stress levels among job seekers. In a related survey, it was noted that severe addictions could lead to outright rejection from employment opportunities, while negative workplace behaviors such as gossiping and criticizing management can tarnish an employee's reputation.
Career consultant Ekaterina Zhelyabina advised job seekers to maintain professionalism when discussing past employment issues, suggesting they frame their experiences in a businesslike manner to potential employers.
