Ageism in the Workplace

Does your age impact your ability to land a job? I’ve read several articles on the topic. Journalists report that “ageism” is a major influence in getting a job. As a career recruiter who has run my own recruiting firm and national staffing functions for corporations, I implore you not to get too hung up on age. There are advantages and disadvantages for both early, mid and late career. But don’t let age deter you from applying for a job.

Contemporary wisdom says that younger workers are favored by employers because they are more technology literate, technology adaptable, energetic and computer savvy than their older counterparts. Or that older workers are favored by employers because they have more work experience, a stronger work ethic, a better network of contacts and more references. Should you be aware of these potential preconceptions? Yes and no. Should you be dissuaded from pursuing an opening due to potential prejudices? NO and absolutely NO!

You can’t let any of this hold you back from going after what you want. Even if you ultimately aren’t selected for the job, don’t assume it has anything to do with age. Most of the time, it does not. Don’t use age as an excuse to shy away from applying for a job or in seeking insight as to why you were not selected. Yes, there are some industries that are more youth-focused than others, but not as many as you may think. Most of the time, job offers and rejections are not due to age.

Myth Busters
Here’s an example to help debunk the myth: Did you know studies show that younger workers take more sick days than older workers? Why? Younger workers are balancing work with an active social life which often includes “sowing their oats” at night or “playing hookey” to hit the beach on a nice day. Older workers generally take fewer sick days because they have gotten a lot of these activities out of their systems long ago, their lives are generally more focused around their jobs and they may have more present and future financial commitments on their minds with fewer years left in the workforce.

Whatever your age, you need to project an image of vitality, energy, focus and enthusiasm. These characteristics are not age specific. There are 25-year-olds that project these traits, and there are 25-year-olds that don't. And, there are 55-year-olds that carry themselves as youthful and relevant and 55-year-olds that don't. Be honest with yourself about how you come across. Ask for feedback from those closest to you. Reflect on what you can do to enhance qualities attractive to employers. Just one cautionary note: make subtle enhancements that make sense for your age and are not an obvious attempt to do so. If you aren’t your authentic self, people will see through that pretty quickly, too.

The bottom line: Focus on what is within your control, and that is, presenting the best you.

Keep Careering Today and Everyday.

Mark