When small business owners set out to hire new employees, they tend to have a view of their perfect candidate in mind. Some of the preferred traits include being outgoing, excited about the job prospect, having experience in the field and presenting him or herself well on all levels.

However, when they're picturing the perfect person for the position, how old is their ideal candidate? A recent report revealed that although leaders value the traits that their older employees bring to the table, they don't often seek out hiring people of a certain age.

Senior staffers offer experience, expertise
According to a recent study by the Investors Group, the majority of Canadian business owners believe that workers over the age of 65 are often more experienced and have a more specific skill set than their younger counterparts. Ninety-six percent of leaders stated that employees over the traditional age of retirement have more value, and nearly 70 percent said this is good because these staff members not more expensive to employ.

Despite the benefits of hiring those who have more time spent in the industry, 79 percent of startup owners would prefer to bring on younger workers, because of health issues and necessary technology training that is sometimes required for older employees. For older folks who already hold a position, they should not be worried about job security, however, the study revealed.

Because many older individuals have reentered the workforce due to financial worries and constraints since the global recession, many leaders that need to add to their staff are making exceptions. These include offering part-time jobs, assigning specific projects, hiring temporary employees and allowing people to work from home.

Account for all employees
Because many changes in employment are being made to accommodate the valued older population, business owners should consider using accounting software to keep track of their payroll and finances easier. Rather than manually entering information and figures for regular, part-time, contract and project-based workers, the process can be made much simpler by automating the financial aspect of the company with programs.

This can also be lucrative when firms need to start considering hiring new staffers. They can look at the real time capital of the business to see if they have the funds needed to advertise for additional workers, as well as the money needed to add extra people to the payroll.