Those young men with the fashionable stubble, the kind hated by mothers but loved by the Millennials, stride around the office looking new and fresh.
So, should the 50+ exec do the same?
No. Career experts say copying the trends of the young just looks silly on older people. Quoted in The Wall Street Journal, Peter Cappelli, a management professor at the Wharton School and author of Managing the Older Worker, says, "If you're in your 30s and you have stubble, maybe it's hunky. But if you're 70 and you've got gray stubble, it looks like you're homeless." Instead, experts recommend older workers embrace their age and experience. Continually update your hair and wardrobe but don't adopt trendy styles. Classic is key.
But working differently is another issue entirely. Older workers have to text, email and know how to use technologies such as Skype.
Career coaches recommend that older workers stay fresh in their roles by continuously updating their technology skills and perspectives. This could mean connecting with younger workers to learn new ideas and keep a better finger on the pulse of the culture. Attend networking events and stay in touch with industry contacts. Continuously update skills with professional courses and training.
If possible, workers over 60 should stay in their jobs and not count on part time work from their companies if they do retire.
Self-employment is one possibility for retirees who want to continue making money.