In Need Of Workers, Concord Hospital Signs AARP Employer Pledge

CONCORD, NH — One of the benefits of an expanding economy is that companies and businesses are competing for employees, which leads to more competition for workers and higher wages – not employees challenging each other for limited opportunities. The down side though, especially for employers, is the lack of workers available for open positions. This is one of the reasons why one of the city's largest employers – Concord Hospital – this month signed AARP's Employer Pledge.

The pledge recognizes the value of experienced workers and reaffirms the hospital's commitment to hiring what it calls an age diverse workforce while also encouraging those who are retired or are thinking about retiring to re-think their plans and consider entering the medical profession.

The pledge specifically states that as an employer, the hospital believes in equal opportunity for all employees, regardless of age, and that workers who are 50-years and older, shall have a level playing field in their ability to compete for – and obtain – employment opportunities.

By signing on to the pledge, the hospital is also making a commitment to recruit and consider all applicants on an equal basis, from all age groups.

"Having a multigenerational workforce adds significant value to what we do and can give us an edge over competitors," said Robin Moore, the hospital's chief human resources officer. "Different work and life experiences from employees help make us a better, stronger organization."

According to Jennifer Dearborn, the hospital's public information officer, more than 3,600 people are employed by the hospital and there are more than 200 open positions. Some of the positions do require specific skills and education; but others are entry level. Positions are full-time, part-time, and on a per diem basis, too.

AARP – which has been promoting the initiative and also has a job board featuring employers across the country who are looking for experienced applicants– commended the hospital for its commitment to older workers.

"We’re thrilled that Concord Hospital has signed AARP’s employer pledge," said Susan Weinstock, the vice president for financial resilience at AARP. "We know that employees and employers succeed when they remain committed in words and in action to hiring and maintaining an age diverse workforce."

AARP has more than 5,500 job listings posted in New Hampshire by employers who will consider hiring older, more experienced workers.

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