A Meta-Analysis of Age Differences in Job Performance

David A. Waldman, Bruce J. Avolio

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

404 Scopus citations

Abstract

Meta-analyses were conducted on 40 samples that included data pertaining to the relation between age and job performance. Samples were classified into three categories according to the types of performance measures used in prior research: (a) supervisory ratings, (b) peer ratings, and (c) individual productivity. Results across samples showed a pattern of increases in performance, as measured by productivity indices, at higher ages. Conversely, supervisory ratings showed a slight tendency to be lower for older employees. Significant unexplained variance remained for each of the three types of performance measures after accounting for artifactual variance. Moderator analyses revealed differences between professionals and nonprofessionals in that performance ratings showed more positive relations with age for professionals, as compared to nonprofessionals. Implications were drawn concerning personnel policies regarding older employees.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)33-38
Number of pages6
JournalJournal of Applied Psychology
Volume71
Issue number1
DOIs
StatePublished - Feb 1 1986
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Applied Psychology

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