Opportunities and challenges: older unemployed in Wiener Neustadt

Opportunities and challenges: older unemployed in Wiener Neustadt

In Wiener Neustadt, the labor market shows a multi -layered picture in 2024. Despite an increase in unemployment, a large number of jobs are still available, especially in the area of specialists. In October 2024, 1,123 vacancies were reported via the labor market service (AMS) Wiener Neustadt, which is a slight decline compared to the previous year, but still represents a record value in the long -term comparison.

Special challenges for the Ü50 group

A look at the unemployed over 50 years shows a particularly sensitive topic. "Many of these people meet the qualification requirements of the companies and also bring extensive specialist knowledge, many years of professional experience and a valuable professional network," explains Mevlüt Kücükyasar, the branch manager of the AMS Wiener Neustadt. "Nevertheless, they often remain excluded from the opportunities of the labor market." Currently, 30 percent of unemployed people in Wiener Neustadt are over 50 years old.

With increasing life expectancy and the underestimation of the potential of older workers, it is becoming increasingly important for employers to recognize this group as a valuable resource.

The reasons for the difficulties that older unemployed people encounter are diverse. Health problems and deeply rooted prejudices against older people in working life play a special role. "Over 45 percent of the people over 50 have been given to have health mediation restrictions," says Kücükyasar, "which makes it difficult to return to the labor market. The AMS offers these people targeted support with tailor -made services and high quality standards to improve their job opportunities."

obstacles due to prejudices

However, the challenges do not end with health problems. Small city prejudices that older workers are more expensive, become ill more often or work less flexibly are widespread. A current study by the Sora Institute, which was carried out on behalf of the AMS, proves that people over 50, despite similar qualifications, are often less often invited to interviews. "We urgently need to make a change here," explains Kücükyasar.

"There is a large, previously unused employment potential for unemployed people over 50," emphasizes the AMS leader and refers to demographic change: "The aging population underlines the need to focus more on older workers. Companies can significantly benefit from their experience, reliability and skills."

The AMS Wiener Neustadt is directed by an urgent appeal to the companies to detach themselves from these distorted perspectives and to recognize the opportunities that this generation can offer. Kücükyasar sees the key to success in coping with the shortage of skilled workers in a close cooperation between the economy, unemployed and the labor market service.

A more comprehensive look at the conditions in the region shows that it is not only about current challenges, but also about the long -term perspective. Since many companies are struggling with the shortage of skilled workers, the involvement of older labor could offer a sensible solution. More information about this problem can be found in the detailed report on www.meinbezirk.at can be read.