BC hotels are discovering success through smart recruitment strategies that target 55+ workers to resolve some of their labour shortages.

The hospitality industry faces a severe labour shortage that forces many British Columbia hotels to search desperately for employees to cover their shifts. Multiple hotels throughout the province have discovered an unanticipated hiring approach that produces stable staff alongside enhanced guest satisfaction while decreasing employee departures.

A Workforce Reimagined

Hotels that want to succeed in the future understand that workers aged 55+ bring skills which match operational requirements. Workers in this age group tend to prefer part-time and seasonal work because it helps them achieve their life goals more effectively with short-term shifts of employment, so they can have more time with their grandchildren and time with leisure activities. Hotels that recruit mature workers have discovered that these employees deliver better attendance records and higher work quality and build stronger guest connections.

The Business Case for Experience

The benefits extend far beyond reliability. Properties employing older workers report:

• The turnover rate among older employees is 25-30% lower than the rate for younger staff members.
• Properties achieve better guest satisfaction results primarily because they cater to boomer guests.
• The organization spends less on training since experienced employees need minimal onboarding support.
• Team dynamics benefit from natural mentorship opportunities, which produce stronger relationships between colleagues.

Innovative Approaches 

Hotels across the province employ innovative methods to maintain or bring in older workforce members.

Major hotel brands Hilton and Marriott have made public promises to employ and maintain workers who are 50 years old and above. Hilton has started specific recruitment initiatives to show hospitality jobs as suitable second careers for older workers by highlighting adaptable work arrangements and cross-generational learning opportunities. Marriott supports older employees through phased retirement, flexible scheduling, and age-inclusive employee resource groups, positioning itself as a multigenerational employer that values experience and long-term loyalty.

Larger hotels such as the Fairmont Hotel Vancouver are also adapting such thinking with their employees by giving them the opportunity to fill positions that are less demanding in regard to time and physical activities to keep their employee benefits and morale positive.

Previously, Okanogan hotels launched seasonal employment opportunities during winter months that match the schedules of retirees living in BC. A hotel in the area introduced four-hour housekeeping shifts, which attract retired people who want to earn extra money without dedicating themselves to full-time employment.

Breaking Down Barriers

Mature worker-friendly properties eliminate all potential barriers for this demographic.

• The job postings now focus on showcasing experience rather than highlighting physical requirements.
• The company provides scheduling flexibility to support medical appointments, together with family responsibilities.
• The housekeeping staff received lighter equipment that included carts.
• The training program brings together younger staff members who are tech-savvy with experienced hires to create intergenerational learning opportunities.

Agency/Programs Supporting 55+ Employment

go2HR
This organization serves as the human resources and health & safety association for British Columbia’s tourism and hospitality sector. Its mission is to build a skilled workforce and promote safe, thriving workplaces that support exceptional visitor experiences across the province. More info: go2HR

Government of Canada
Targeted Initiative for Older Workers (TIOW) is a federal–provincial program that offers wage subsidies and on-the-job training for hiring unemployed Canadians aged 55–64 in smaller BC communities (under 250,000 residents). Employers—especially in tourism and hotels—can partner with WorkBC or local colleges to access support. Funded through the Canada–BC Labour Market Development Agreements (LMDAs). More info: TIOW Program

WorkBC Wage Subsidy Program
The program provides financial support to employers who want to hire people from various age groups , including workers 55 and older , through wage reimbursement for job training and employment continuation. More info: WorkBC Wage Subsidy Program

YWCA Metro Vancouver – Job Futures 55+
A ten-week free program delivers job readiness training through workshops alongside individual coaching, along with business connections to job seekers aged 55+. The program is currently active with additional cohorts scheduled for 2025. More info: YMCA Metro Vancouver

Empowered for Employment
Includes program completion incentives!  Eligibility: 55 years of age or older. Resident of B.C.; Unemployed or Underemployed.  Seeking skills training and employment. More info: Empowered for Employment

The Future of Hospitality Staffing

BC hotels that successfully hire employees aged 55+ achieve a strategic advantage in the current labour market.  These employees deliver the consistency and guest service excellence that defines exceptional hospitality, qualities that can’t be taught but come with life experience.

Today’s market-leading properties develop teams that unite wisdom with energy to form successful operational units.  The value of experience in human-connected operations has reached an unavoidable level in our industry.

By the Numbers

• According to Statistics Canada 72% of Canadian retirees would work again if they received suitable working conditions.
• Mature workers maintain their positions for 2.5 times longer than younger employees according to WorkBC statistics.
• The hospitality sector properties staffed by older workers achieve 15% higher customer retention rates according to BC Tourism HR.

The hospitality industry in British Columbia demonstrates that hotels which value experience as their main asset will lead the future market.  Properties that welcome workers 55+ through their skills and dedication are building workforces which will endure into the future.  Hotels which recognize maturity as their most powerful competitive edge will become the leaders in delivering authentic, memorable guest experiences.  The industry will find stability through the enduring value of experience, which has proven itself as the most powerful force in an industry marked by constant transformation.

For more sales advice, contact Brent O’Connor – brent.o@telus.net.