NederlandsEmployment Actief Werkt! gave me, as an older employee, the opportunity at the right time. Human Resource Management at its best!' Temporary worker Isaac Amamoo (57) has been working for various clients of Actief Werkt! for six months now. 'It is a matter of mentality, age does not directly play a role.'
Isaac started his search for a new job last year. 'Times change and the working methods of employment agencies apparently change too. During my visits, I was often referred to the website for registration and application. Then I heard nothing more.
Via Werkplein and Podium 24, a partnership focused 
for target groups with a distance to the labor market, I came Actief Werkt! During my visit to the branch in Heerlen , my details were immediately noted and job interviews soon followed. During one of those conversations, the client suggested that I might be too old for the position in question. The consultant of Actief Werkt! immediately indicated that this was certainly not the case, she really stood up for me. That's nice, someone who is really committed to you. Soon afterwards I was able to start working and I have already worked for various companies.'
Open to 50+
Last month, the trade associations for the temporary employment sector ABU and NBBU joined the 'Open for 50-plus' campaign. The broadcasting umbrella organizations will call on their members to always offer a 50-plus candidate in a search. In Nederland persistent prejudices about the employment opportunities for job seekers from the years of birth between 1948 and 1965. Most people over 50 end up on social assistance if they are unable to find work during the unemployment period.
Tessy Derks, Flex Advisor at Actief Werkt! : 'We are the specialist in the field of flexible personnel and want to bring supply and demand together. Realizing an ideal match often requires (life) experience. This is one of the reasons why we think it is natural to also have a conversation and pay attention to people over 50. In addition, there are interesting schemes and activities for employers to hire older employees. This also gives Actief Werkt! an advantage. Een win-win situation, result for everyone.'
'It's not really about the over-50s. Most job seekers of this age are very active looking, motivated and certainly not rigid. We are willing to develop ourselves, it is really a matter of mentality. I do understand that people over 50 may find them too expensive', says temporary worker Isaac. “But older workers certainly have work and life experience. And as a result, they may be extra motivated and loyal to their employers.
Are you over 50 looking for a new job? View our vacancies here or contact a branch near you.