Worker Shortage Looming?

A new report issued by the Boston College Center for Aging & Work bolsters the rumors we've been hearing for years: There will be a serious shortage of employees in most professions beginning about 2012, due to baby-boomer retirement.

And yet, according to a story in the Boston Globe, only 12% of the 578 companies surveyed have planned in-depth to prepare for this shortage.

The good news for job seekers is that - according to the law of supply and demand - most workers should find it easier to get jobs, and top performers will command top compensation.

Also of interest to baby boomers who DON'T intend to retire, smart companies are rethinking their strategies for retaining and even recruiting older workers. Sadly, most haven't done much about it yet, but at least the issue is on the radar screen.

The not-so-good news appeared in an adjacent article: Apparently most people haven't saved enough for retirement! So it may not be pure love that keeps people working. But whatever the reason, it's good to have a positive work environment and solid career options, whatever your age.

Posted by Louise Kursmark