Mature workers

What are the main attributes of mature workers?

At the heart of the disability and community care sector is people working with people to make life better. People who have seen a lot of life, and who have the right attributes, can get a great deal of satisfaction and enjoyment out of seeing that what they have to offer is of real value, and in demand.

If you’ve got any concerns about re-entering the workforce or changing the direction of your career, it’s worth knowing that the disability and community care sector positively welcomes mature applicants for roles at every level. There are many qualities and skills that often come with age and experience that make older applicants ideal for the sector.

Research has shown that employers value the following traits in mature workers:

  • Experience and wisdom
  • Loyalty to employers
  • Good work ethic
  • Confidence

If you recognise these personality traits in yourself, you should be considering a move into the community care and disability sector.

What are the benefits of the sector for mature workers?

  • Flexible work schedule – varied hours, ideal if you’re looking to spend less time working in the run up to retirement
  • Varied and people-focussed work
  • On-the-job training opportunities
  • Opportunity to act as a mentor
  • Work-life balance
  • Making a positive difference to your life by making a positive difference to the lives of others
  • Responsibility, ownership of the solutions/support you provide
  • Initiative – working individually, you’ll have the opportunity to use your own abilities to create solutions
  • Teamwork – you’ll have the chance to work in highly supportive teams that span cultures, ages, and abilities

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What’s the best approach for moving into the sector?

In this sector, your life skills and experience will give you a head start, and in fact there’s even a Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) scheme. That said it’s still a good idea to plan ahead when entering a new sector, especially if you’ve been out of the workforce for a while.

There are some simple steps you can take to make sure you’re well prepared for the job hunt. carecareers can help you:


Looking for an edge?

Sometimes attitude is the key to achieving the change you’re looking for.

  • Be confident – you have a lot to offer!
  • Be flexible – flexibility demonstrates your dedication to finding your place within the sector
  • Be connected – engage with your community, on our blog and facebook, to stay up-to-date and connected
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