Angela Alvarez: The Inspiring Story of Starbucks' Oldest Employee

Introduction

Angela Alvarez, a remarkable woman from Burlingame, California, has captured the hearts of people worldwide with her inspiring story. At the age of 90, she became Starbucks' oldest employee, working part-time at the Cortez Hill Starbucks location in San Diego. Her unwavering determination, positive attitude, and infectious smile have made her a beloved figure within the company and beyond.

Angela's Journey

Angela's journey began in 1943, when she moved to the United States from Mexico with her family. She worked various jobs throughout her life, including as a waitress, janitor, and cashier. In 2019, at the age of 87, she decided to join the Starbucks team.

Her initial application was rejected due to her age. However, undeterred, she persisted and reapplied several times. Her determination eventually paid off when she was hired as a barista in 2020.

Why Angela's Story Matters

Angela's story is a testament to the power of following your dreams, no matter your age. It has also sparked a conversation about ageism in the workplace and the importance of valuing senior workers.

The Benefits of Employing Senior Workers

Research has shown that senior workers offer a wealth of benefits to organizations, including:

• Experience and Knowledge: Senior workers have accumulated a vast amount of experience and knowledge throughout their careers, which can be invaluable to companies.
• Stability and Loyalty: Senior workers tend to be more stable and loyal employees, with lower turnover rates than younger workers.
• Diversity: Senior workers bring a diverse perspective to the workplace, which can foster creativity and innovation.
• Mentorship: Senior workers can serve as mentors to younger employees, passing on their knowledge and skills.

How Angela Has Benefited Starbucks

Angela has been a valuable asset to Starbucks since joining the team. Her positive attitude, warmth, and willingness to help customers have created a welcoming and positive atmosphere at the Cortez Hill location.

She has also become a local celebrity, with customers often visiting the store just to meet her and hear her inspiring stories. Her presence has boosted the store's reputation and sales.

Effective Strategies for Hiring Senior Workers

Companies that want to reap the benefits of hiring senior workers can implement the following strategies:

• Be Open-Minded: Avoid making assumptions about senior workers based on their age. Give them a fair chance to demonstrate their skills and abilities.
• Consider Experience: Value the experience and knowledge that senior workers bring to the table. Don't overlook candidates who may have a different educational background or career path.
• Provide Flexibility: Be willing to offer flexible work arrangements, such as part-time hours or telecommuting, to accommodate the needs of senior workers.
• Create a Supportive Environment: Ensure that senior workers feel welcomed, respected, and valued within the organization.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When hiring senior workers, avoid the following common mistakes:

• Ageism: Don't make discriminatory decisions based on a candidate's age. Age should not be a factor in the hiring process.
• Stereotyping: Avoid assuming that all senior workers are the same. They are individuals with diverse skills, experiences, and needs.
• Overlooking Skills: Don't focus solely on a candidate's age. Consider their skills, abilities, and experience, regardless of their age.

Tips and Tricks for Senior Workers

For senior workers who are looking for employment, here are some tips and tricks:

• Highlight Your Experience: Emphasize your skills, experience, and knowledge in your resume and cover letter.
• Network: Attend industry events and connect with potential employers on LinkedIn.
• Consider Part-Time or Flexible Work: Be open to part-time or flexible work arrangements that may better suit your needs.
• Stay Up-to-Date: Continuously learn new skills and technologies to stay relevant in the job market.
• Don't Give Up: Don't be discouraged if you face rejection. Stay persistent and keep applying for jobs until you find the right opportunity.

Conclusion

Angela Alvarez is a shining example of the value that senior workers can bring to the workplace. Her inspiring story has challenged ageist attitudes and demonstrated the benefits of employing senior individuals.

Additional Resources

• The Economic Benefits of Senior Workers
• How to Hire and Retain Senior Workers
• Tips for Senior Workers Seeking Employment

Tables

Table 1: Benefits of Employing Senior Workers

Table 2: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Hiring Senior Workers

Table 3: Tips for Senior Workers Seeking Employment