Workers over the age of 50 are disproportionately likely to feel their career has stalled
Workers over the age of 50 are disproportionately likely to feel their career has stalled, according to new research. In fact, just 12 per cent feel their career is progressing, compared with a third of those under 50.
The study, by Axa PPP Healthcare, suggested that a third of those over 50 felt they didn't have a career path at all, compared with just 13 per cent of their younger colleagues. And nearly a quarter said they felt their career was "winding down".
To add insult to injury, 49 per cent said they reported to a younger line manager.
Of course, that doesn't reflect the entire workforce – research by Morning Wire back in March found the average age of FTSE 100 chief executives is just under 53, while the index's oldest boss is 70-year-old Sir Martin Sorrell, whose career shows little sign of "winding down".
But research has also shown that 50 is the most expensive age, with many forced to shell out not just for themselves, but also for teenage children and, increasingly, elderly parents – so it's not the best time for careers to stall.
James Freeston, sales and marketing director at Axa PP Healthcare, pointed out that the workforce is ageing, whether businesses like it or not – but rather than sidelining their experienced workforce, they should be making the most of it.