According to these statistics, it is a reality.
- Over 207k US workers filed age discrimination claims with the EEOC between 2011 and 2021.
- Almost 25% of workers 45 or older have experienced negative comments about their age from supervisors or coworkers.
- Although older workers were interviewed at a rate similar to younger counterparts, older workers were offered jobs 40% less frequently.
- Older workers experience longer unemployment stints and larger pay cuts than other age groups.
However, there are ways to combat Ageism when in a career transition. Let’s look at some tools and techniques you can use in your job search.
- First impressions matter! Make sure you present yourself positively, demonstrate high energy, and be confident.
- Utilize social media tools like LinkedIn to showcase your experience, and skills, letting employers see what value you can add.
- You can also create posts, comment on posts, and complete training courses through LinkedIn Learning (requires Premium access)
- Research the companies you are interested in and learn about them.
- Do they reflect the values that you have?
- Are they the type of company you want to work for?
- Do you believe in the products and/or services they offer
- Network, Network, Network!
- Connect with existing and former employees, career networking groups, and references. Try to find out as much as you can about the company so you can make an informed decision about the company.
How to Overcome Ageism in a Job Search?
Your Resume
- Limit your years of experience to 10-15 years.
- Utilize an “other experiences section on your resume with just companies & titles or provide a brief explanation of other experiences.
- Remove graduation dates.
- Make sure your email address is a current one (Gmail, Outlook).
- Make sure you are “current” in the phrases you use on your resume. Don’t use outdated business terms.
Interviewing
- Be prepared to answer and ask questions that will allow you to explain how your experience will help the company solve its problems.
- It’s all about the “Value” you will bring to the company.
- Have a “strong” answer when asked questions related to “time frames.”
- Remember you are there to contribute to the success of the company and be a valued asset to them.
- Stay up to date on current industry trends, news & advancements.
Certified Age Friendly Employer (CAFÉ)
- Investigate certifications by the Age Friendly Institute for “Certified Age Friendly Employer
- Certified employers are those that value employees based solely on their proficiency, qualifications, and contributions to maintain policies, practices, and programs supporting people aged 50 and older.
- Certification indicates an employer’s recognition of the value of age 50+ workers as well as its commitment to providing meaningful employment, development opportunities, and competitive pay and benefits for those employees.
- Employers complete a comprehensive review process before being selected for these certifications.
Talk to Someone
- Utilize your Career Consultant at Promark to help you prepare/support you during your transition.
- Many of our Career Consultants have been through transition themselves.
- Network with other job seekers.
- Attend Networking Group meetings.
- Find your Support System!
Be kind to yourself, it can take longer than you expect to find the right job for you. You have to believe in yourself!
Companies hire older workers because:
- Skills and Experience!
- Great Networks & Connections
- Strong Work Ethic
- Understand the History of a Situation
- Desire to Leave a Legacy
- Multigenerational Diversity = Great Perspective!
“Aging is not ‘lost youth’ but a new stage of opportunity and strength.” Betty Friedan
Ageism – Is it a Reality or a Myth?