A recent Dispatches programme on Channel 4 told how there is rampant ageism in the business world. The evidence displayed showed there is often an obsession with youth culture and Age Concern say unemployment is rising faster for over 50s than for any other part of the work force.

Certainly anyone working in HR would acknowledge that however it is dressed up; there is a preference for younger workers.

This seems ironic as research clearly shows that older workers are at an advantage in complex businesses. There is a clear correlation between age and successful job performance. The companies who make full use of older workers ensure a far better retention of their organisational knowledge, higher productivity and, perhaps most importantly, greater loyalty.

However, companies should not assume that the older workers will be grateful to still have a job. These individuals are still looking for the opportunity for personal development and enjoy learning new knowledge and skills.

Like anyone else, older workers like to be valued and one way of encouraging feelings of self-worth whilst also obtaining benefits for the business as a whole is to encourage them to mentor their younger colleagues.

The experience and commitment of older workers should not be ignored.