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Age discrimination is a form of employment discrimination based on a person’s age. It can be challenging to fight this type of discrimination, but there are ways you can do so during your application process. It’s illegal to discriminate against someone for their age, but that doesn’t stop employers from doing it. Unfortunately, some people are more worried about how others judge them because of their age than they are about getting hired or not. This blog post will teach you ways to fight against age discrimination when applying for jobs to get the position you deserve!
According to research by AARP, 61 per cent of respondents above the age of 45 had experienced or witnessed professional age discrimination in their jobs. In addition, according to a 2017 study by the San Francisco Fed Bank, persons aged 29–31 received 35% more callbacks than those ages 64–66, according to a 2015 study by the Federal Reserve System.
What is age discrimination in the workplace?
Age discrimination is when a person is not hired or given a promotion because of their age. It’s illegal.
Why it’s essential to fight against age discrimination?
It’s necessary to fight against age discrimination because it means you’ll be able to get the job you deserve, regardless of your age. Not everyone thinks this way, though, which is why some people are willing to turn a blind eye towards cases of this kind.
How do I know if my employer asks about my date of birth?
You will not always understand that an employer asks for your date of birth unless you see their application form or contract. If they ask for personal information like address and phone number, then there’s no harm in asking them what they plan on doing with it so that you can keep track of any potential issues down the road. Knowing how they use your data allows you to determine whether filing a complaint against them would be worth your time.
How should I answer questions during the interview related to my work history?
You do not need to answer questions about your work history if you feel they are related to age. No law says you need to, and it can be seen as discrimination in some cases, even though the employer probably won’t see the connection themselves. It’s always best practice not to volunteer information unless asked, so don’t worry too much!
steps on how to fight back against age discrimination in a professional setting
Be careful about the information you give during an interview if age discrimination has happened to you. Don’t volunteer personal info unless asked for it, and remind yourself there’s no law against not answering questions! Fight back against this discrimination by simply applying for jobs like everyone else would, regardless of your date of birth or how old they think you are. You can also ask HR departments what their age discrimination policy is so as to see whether filing a formal complaint might be worth it.
How do I know when my application was declined?
If someone declines your job application, they will probably send over some notification (if only via email). Therefore, keep track of all work-related messages because knowing why you were declined is helpful for future reference. In addition, identify discriminatory statements in job ads and questions during interviews.
Do not volunteer personal information. Apply for jobs just like everyone else would, and keep track of any notifications you get related to work. Refrain from mentioning your age, but if asked politely, say you are within the preferred/appropriate range for the position. Also, avoid bringing up any retirement or benefits related to ageing.
Use alternative resources such as older worker advocacy groups, local seniors’ centres, and places of worship.
Network with people you feel comfortable talking to about your concerns but do not ask for help finding employment or filling out applications. This may be seen as suspicious and could lead to discrimination against other older applicants who are just trying to find a job.
Resources for people who want to learn more about the topic and get help with their situation in the UK:
Please find the person’s name who will be interviewing you and look them up online using social media, Google, or other search engines. Do not contact them via email/phone unless it is already part of your cover letter or interview conversation.
Research what types of questions are typically asked during interviews, then be prepared to provide the same kind of information for yourself.
Be confident in your abilities and knowledge about the industry/position you are applying for. Also, speak confidently when discussing past work experiences or projects that pertain to what they are looking for. This will help put them at ease, knowing your skills matter more than your age.
What to do if you are being discriminated against:
If you feel the workplace environment is hostile, document and record as much information as possible. Also, try to find witnesses or anyone else who has been maltreated for their age.
The next step will be contacting an attorney if your company does not resolve the issue within a reasonable time (usually 30–60 days).
If you feel like your age is the main reason employers are not hiring you, contact an employment attorney for more information. Ensure to provide as much detail about your situation and background as possible.
Be aware that there may be deadlines based on state/federal law if legal action against an employer is related to age discrimination.
Photo by John Moeses Bauan on Unsplash
Tips for job seekers over 50 years old
Reduce the importance of your education by eliminating graduation dates.
Because you most likely have a lot of valuable experience that employers would be interested in reading about, it’s generally preferable to place your education section near the bottom of your CV. You may also avoid the clutter of prior graduation dates and information by removing any related educational experiences. The more you can pique people’s curiosity about your professional background,
Please research the employer and industry to learn more about what they are looking for in a candidate.
Be prepared to tell them why you would be a good fit and how long it has been since you’ve worked at this particular type of job. Also, consider including some information related to any continuing education or professional development you have done over the years.
Ensure you have a professional resume that highlights your strengths, not just your age
Be prepared to tell them why you would be a good fit and how long it has been since you’ve worked at this particular type of job. Also, consider including some information related to any continuing education or professional development you have done over the years.
If an employer assumes you’re too old for the position, other places may be available to suit your skills and abilities better.
In the event of inappropriate remarks or inquiries, redirect the discussion.
If your interviewer remarks or asks about your age, ask for further clarification or redirect the discussion back to employment. For example, if they ask you, “How long do you intend to work?” You might respond with something like, “At this point in my career, I want to use my background to serve a cause
The best way to fight age discrimination is by being authentic and not worrying about what other people think. If you’re a professional, I’m sure you have experience in the industry you are applying to. Age doesn’t matter if someone has been working for years! So take control of your future with these tips, and start interviewing! You might find the perfect job opportunity waiting for you when it’s time to retire from your current position. Have you ever been discriminated against for being too old based on your application/interview performance, where they turned you down because of your current age? Write in the comments.
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