Did you know that ageism in the workplace affects a lot of older employees?
You might think that today’s workplaces have left discrimination in the past century because the new generation of employers, HR managers, and employees have all received a thorough education about the value of an inclusive work environment.
According to AARP, 64% of workers have experienced or witnessed ageism in the workplace. Even though there has been a lot of research that overturns common stereotypes about senior employees, the new ways of thinking haven’t been completely absorbed.
What does ageism in the workplace look like? A job candidate in their 50s could hear that the company is looking for a college graduate “with no bad habits and a lot of energy,” while a worker in their 60s might be advised to not attend an industry conference, ostensibly to allow them to “take it easy this month.”
Keep in mind that ageism is illegal during any part of the employment process, from hiring to firing and every moment in between. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act, commonly known as the ADEA, prohibits age discrimination against individuals aged 40 and over.
It’s important to be alert to signs of age discrimination and to know your options if you or a loved one experiences ageism in the workplace. We’re here to round up the most common signs, so let’s get started!
1. Preferential treatment
Have you been told that you’re overqualified for a position? Do you get turned down for special tasks or projects in favor of younger employees? Are you constantly being ignored during staff meetings?
Ageism in the workplace can rear its ugly head in every part of your regular work life. It’s important to note that sometimes it can be quite subtle, so the victim cannot realize on the spot what’s actually happening. That’s why knowing what ageism looks like can help you recognize it when it occurs.
Preferential treatment aimed at younger workers can look like more praise and positive feedback, extra opportunities for training, and more frequent raises. Your age shouldn’t play any part in accolades or advancement at work, but sadly, this happens frequently to people over the age of 40.
2. Word choice
Certain choices of words can be a subtle sign of ageism in the workplace, and again, it may not come at first as age discrimination. Companies that prioritize things like new talent and fresh perspectives may genuinely be interested in innovation merely for the sake of growth and improvement.
For instance, if your employer frequently uses words like young or energetic in their communications with company employees, it could indicate ageism in the workplace.
Job postings that include terms like “no experience necessary” or “recent graduate” can also be a sign of discriminatory hiring practices. It’s important to note these things when they happen, even if you’re already employed with the company, as this type of practice can and often seep over from hiring into other areas like raises and promotions.
3. Demographic shifts
Employee retention isn’t always a direct result of a company’s policies, but if there’s a history of older employees leaving their positions and being replaced with younger counterparts, we’re talking about a pattern here, and this may be cause for alarm.
A certain level of shifting demographics is to be expected as workers retire and are replaced with, inevitably, somewhat younger employees. Managers shouldn’t be pressuring or forcing certain members of their workforce to leave because of their age.
If this is the case in the company where you’re working, discriminatory practices may be to blame.
By the way, if you want to learn more about ageism, this book is the perfect introduction.
4. Layoffs and demotions
It’s normal for a company to go through natural ebbs and flows in their business needs. This sometimes leads to pay cuts and layoffs.
However, if the only workers who have been on the receiving end of these unfortunate events are over the age of 40, this is a clear sign of ageism in the workplace.
The same thing applies to demotions too. The decision to move a worker down the corporate ladder should be based exclusively on job performance, not date of birth.
Keep reading to discover other signs of ageims in the w0rkplace!
5. Unfair assumptions
Many people in younger generations assume that their older peers cannot understand technology. For instance, suppose your coworkers or supervisors have made jokes or insinuated remarks about your inability to operate software, office equipment, or any other piece of technology.
If so, they may be subtly expressing their ageist beliefs, and this is a clear sign of ageism in the workplace.
Other hurtful and common assumptions include cognitive and physical differences between different age groups. You shouldn’t be made to feel as though you can’t deliver the same qualitative work as your younger coworkers. Jokes or comments about brain function, physical mobility, or overall health related to your age don’t have to be tolerated.
6. Social circles
It’s natural for similar groups of individuals to congregate. There’s an old saying, “Birds of a feather flock together,” and while it may sound like a cliche, it tends to be true.
However, ageism in the workplace is often the culprit when these social gatherings maliciously or purposefully exclude older employees. Cliques among coworkers aren’t the only place where this kind of discrimination can be found.
Hobnobbing with the boss at happy hour or on the golf course can be a wonderful career opportunity, but who are the lucky ones that get invited to these events? Paying attention to the demographics can reveal potential ageism in the workplace.
7. Changes in responsibilities
Suddenly being disciplined, criticized, under pressure, or receiving subpar performance reviews for the first time may indicate that management is trying to build evidence against you so they can fire you. Of course, this only applies if the employee is doing their job properly and there are no changes in their work performance.
Also, be aware of any job changes that suddenly assign you unpleasant tasks or limit your authority, as this may mean your employee is trying to get you to quit.
8. Reduced training opportunities
Unfortunately, older workers are often overlooked when it comes to training programs. According to recent data, only 24% of adults aged 550–65 participate in job-related training. In contrast, 41% of adults ages 45–54 take part in such programs.
This lack of development and learning opportunities stems from stereotypes perpetuated about older workers. Assumptions like the ones we talked about above, such as older employees being slow, on the verge of retirement, or resistant to learning, contribute to this disparity.
However, it’s not just older workers who deal with these challenges. Younger employees also bear the burden of stereotypes, such as lacking motivation, being disorganized, or lacking conscientiousness. This is also called ageism in the workplace.
Takeover
There are state and federal protections available to employees who believe they are the victims of ageism in the workplace. If you believe this is happening to you, document any sign of discrimination. Take detailed notes; write down the names of witnesses to conversations and the dates. Then, consider contacting an employment lawyer.
Employers cannot rightfully commit age discrimination against job candidates or employees, but identifying this kind of behavior isn’t always easy, as systemic ageism in the workplace is often insidious. Your years of work experience should be valued, not scorned.
If you liked our article on the signs of ageism in the workplace, you may also want to read The 7 Best Social Activities for Seniors.
