Plumber, electrician, painter or gardener: as retirement approaches, these experienced workers often find a second career in a hardware store. And they are welcomed with open arms!
That’s what happened to Lynda Riverin, training scenographer. After studying at the Quebec City Conservatory of Dramatic Arts, she had a career as an artist-painter. “I was doing commercial decoration and faux finishes on various construction sites. I even had my own business,” she recounts.
A new career
The adventure lasted 10 years. After many projects in grocery stores, restaurants and even private individuals, Lynda Riverin had to stop. “I had cancer. I was sick for two years. I lost my business,” she recalls.
When she recovered, a new Rona store opened not far from where she lived, in Sainte-Thérèse. The artist-painter decided to go there with her CV. After six months working as an adviser, she became assistant manager of the store. Today, she is the one hiring.
“We need qualified people who know the terrain well. These employees are often the most in demand for this reason. Some customers come to the store to ask their advice,” Lynda Riverin says.
Recruiting experienced people
“Grey workers” – these employees who are of retirement age – make up 15% to 20% of their workforce. “When we receive their CV, they are the first choices, because we know that they have an interest in their field.”
Caroline Normand, Director of Human Resources and Training at Canac, agrees with Lynda Riverin. “Initially, customers don’t know which employees are making a second career with us. But after the first contact they come back to take advantage of the wealth of knowledge these advisers have.”
The value of grey workers
According to the director, all advisers receive training, but the grey workers set out with a head start from day one. “For example, an employee called on to work in materials will be trained in existing material types or in a coating calculation. A carpenter already knows these concepts. A vocational college student who works for us will have some theoretical knowledge, but no experience in the field.”
“These experienced people are often more sure of themselves. They give good advice and know how to avoid problems they already encountered in their previous job. They represent great value within our workforce,” she adds.