With age comes maturity. And in the workplace, managers can benefit from emotionally intelligent and experienced employees.

When one thinks of older employees, we tend to assume that they’re boring, old fashioned, stiff, grumpy, stubborn and overpaid. Now, whether it's Hollywood that has brainwashed you or not, these are actually very far from the truth. Aged employees offer a range of advantages that younger workers simply lack.

Here’s why older employees are better employees:

They’re not easily distracted

With mobile devices, social networks, and instant message communication devices, employees can get distracted and lose focus more easily. But a generation that didn’t grow up with the internet and its shortcuts, are less likely to get sucked into the never ending pit of interesting websites and apps.

Read: Age discrimination in the workplace

Also, they lived through a time when you were unable to do anything but work. The habit of concentrating for longer periods is more likely to be a natural activity which makes them efficient and productive.

You are the greener side

While recent graduates and younger workers are looking for the next step on the corporate ladder, older employees are content with stability, are reluctant to change too drastically, and are more focused (and pride themselves) on getting the job done properly.

They know what they like, dislike and what to look out for. After a life are looking for the perfect position, they’ve finally found it in you. In other words, they are less likely to resign from your company.

They’re more experienced

This is a no brainer. Older employees know what they’re doing; they know the industry, have made many contacts over the years, have tons of references and they understand the ins, outs, in betweens, and even outsides of the job. Even as a new hire, an experienced employee can get started immediately, minimum (time-wasting) training required.  

Not only do they understand the job role and its expectations but also all the employee relations, office etiquette and other important work life issues that come with professional settings. The maturity that comes along with an older hire is a trait that cannot be taught, but is learnt through years of experience.

Their leadership skills are developed

Older staff members automatically assume the role of mentor. Younger employees will run to older co-workers looking for advice, from how to deal with tax or buy a house, to productivity tips and other work related training. As the mommies and daddies of the office, they’ll be the helping hand new recruits will appreciate.

At the same time, juggling office politics will come easier to them as they have likely seen it all and been through it all making them the most understanding and pleasant employees to help diffuse situations. There’s a lot we can all learn from them.

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They cost less

Finally, you may think that experience equals higher salary but your return on investment will be so much more than you could calculate. We mentioned it before, and it’s true: there are very little training costs that need to be invested in experienced workers - and that’s what older staff are: experienced. Keep an eye out for applicants that are young enough to be filled with energy of their youth, but old enough to offer their priceless experience to you.

Remember, the older generation believes in going the extra mile for the sake of doing the best possible job you can do, taking care of your responsibilities and fulfilling all promises. And because older employees don’t require micromanagement or hawk-eyed supervision, you could arrange that they work on a part time basis, which means you only have to pay for half a day’s work. After all, they really are incredible employees.

To find out how you can retain your best staff, especially the most experienced and valuable employees, browse more of our Management Advice and Tips.