The Ageism Buster
In today’s world, it is increasingly likely that you will want to stay working well past your 50s, 60s and even into your 70s. While this is a positive sign of our longevity, unfortunately many of us are likely to come up against some form of ageism in the workplace.
?Research by AARP reports that roughly two-thirds of adults over 50 believe older workers face discrimination in the workplace. Of that group, 90% believe ageism is commonplace. The same article indicates that one in 5 older adults (20%) said they had personally experienced age discrimination since turning 40(!)
So to be proactive before you experience ageism in the workplace, here are several offensive steps you can take to ensure that you are ahead of the game.
Take the time to learn that new app
One common stereotype is that older individuals struggle with technology even though a study ?from Stanford University's Center on Longevity suggests that this isn't always true. Combating this widespread misconception involves actively staying informed about industry trends and technological advancements. Even if technology isn't your passion, it's important to continually update your skills through online courses, workshops, or certifications related to your field. Embrace new technologies and applications used in your workplace, and don't hesitate to seek help or training when necessary. This proactive approach demonstrates your eagerness to learn and adapt, effectively countering stereotypes that suggest older workers are resistant to change.
Show how you can make others shine
Your years of experience are a valuable asset. Showcase your expertise by sharing insights from past projects or offering solutions based on your extensive knowledge, but be careful to not use a tone of voice that gives the younger listener the sense that you feel superior to them. There’s a fine line between demonstrating the breadth of your experience and explaining it in a way that can be understood by someone who is younger and has less experience. They want to know that they can relate to you and how you will fit with the team and tend to care less about all your years of experience.
Instead, try a mentoring approach that demonstrates how your experience can benefit the person and the entire team. Share stories of how you've successfully navigated challenges similar to current workplace issues, illustrating the practical value of your experience.
Reach across the age gap
Actively engage with colleagues of all ages. Participate in team-building activities, join employee resource groups, or initiate lunch meetups with coworkers from different generations. By fostering positive relationships across age groups, you break down stereotypes and create allies who can vouch for your skills and contributions.
Outperform
Consistently deliver high-quality work and meet or exceed performance expectations. Keep track of your accomplishments and quantifiable results. During performance reviews or team meetings, highlight your contributions and how they align with company goals. This focus on results shifts attention away from age and towards your actual value to the organization.
Stay on the sunny side
Enthusiasm and a positive outlook can go a long way in combating age-related stereotypes. Approach new projects with energy and optimism. Be open to change and new ideas, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability. Your attitude can challenge preconceptions about older workers being resistant to change or lacking energy.
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Speak up
If you encounter overt ageism, don't be afraid to address it professionally. Speak with your manager or HR representative about your concerns. Frame the conversation around how age diversity benefits the company and how ageist attitudes can negatively impact team dynamics and productivity.
Beat the drum for age-inclusive policies
Get involved in company initiatives or committees focused on diversity and inclusion. Advocate for age-inclusive policies and practices, such as mentorship programs that pair older and younger employees, or training sessions on recognizing and combating age bias.
Keep Your Professional Image Current
Ensure your professional image aligns with current workplace norms. This doesn't mean trying to look younger, but rather presenting yourself in a way that's contemporary and professional Keep your LinkedIn profile and resume updated, focusing on recent achievements and skills.
Get clear on your USP
Identify what sets you apart from other employees, regardless of age. Perhaps it's your extensive network, your ability to remain calm under pressure, or your knack for simplifying complex problems. Emphasize these unique strengths in your work and communications with colleagues and supervisors.
Learn, learn and learn more
Demonstrate your commitment to personal and professional growth. Attend industry conferences, participate in webinars, or even consider pursuing further education. Share what you learn with your team, positioning yourself as a valuable source of new information and ideas.
Last but not least
By implementing these strategies, you can begin to work against ageism in the workplace. Remember, your age is an asset, not a liability. Your experience, wisdom, and unique perspective are valuable contributions to any organization. By consistently demonstrating your value, staying current, and fostering positive relationships across generations, you can create a more inclusive work environment that recognizes the benefits of age diversity.
We are never going to get younger, but we are certainly going to live much longer these days and it is important to stay engaged and yes, work for as long as you wish. Thinking positively about yourself will be a key difference in your success no matter if you are on the job or looking for a job!
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DE&I and lgbtqia2s+ advocate and speaker. Heavy Equipment field tech with Silverado Site Services / PME
1 周You can do everything possible to deal with ageism, except you can’t. Any older person still working or entering the job market may say Wow they hired me. Well that’s awesome and those employers are out there, what’s also out there is another system that blatantly deals out ageism constantly and with goverment approval in some cases. The benefits industry sets age based cuts in coverage that are hard if not impossible to change. Why at 65 do you lose half or more of the company provided life insurance, you still do the same job as before. Long term disability coverage is gone and you can’t go to other sickness plans as you will be told to collect your pension. At 70 more disappear and heaven forbid you want to work past 75 where all benefits terminate. One company I worked for got benefits extended to 70 instead of 65 but those are the unicorns when it comes to being able to make changes. The old line that older workers cost insurance companies more is BS piled higher than the moon. Almost every plan has a cap for every benefit and everyone gets the same cap. Myself I love what I do and I plan on staying at it for a another but the risk of little/no coverage or benefits at some point will outweigh the happiness. Im almost 69
Administrative Assistant @ Texas Christian University | Bachelor's of Science
2 周I've experienced ageism as an older student at the university where I work and attend classes. I was in a event about internships for next spring or summer. The Liberal Arts job fair was after this event. A professor was talking about what the employers at the job fair were looking for related to the subject he teaches, Political Science. He said they were looking for students under 40 and looked directly at me. After the event I asked the Dean what was available for the non-traditional students: those that work and go to school, the veterans, the transfer students, the employee students, and the older students like myself. She suggested I look on LinkedIn for a job, that the employers at the job fair had a specific person in mind, and she she turned away from me. I left in tears and didn't attend the job fair because of them. My heart was broken. My husband died 19 years ago leaving our two youngest children, age ten and six, to be raised. I raised them, but it took his death benefit, the life insurance, my retirement, student loans and credit to raise them. I am my only source of income and its not a lot. Social Security and Medicare will not be enough in this economy to survive. I have to work as long as I am able to work.
Human Resources, freelance
1 个月Great messages! It's us to think and act differently in order to be included and create inclusive culture for others.
Content Marketing Manager | Content Development | Web Content | Content Strategy| Copywriting | Editing | Search Engine Optimization | SEO
1 个月Really good tips Marie! I really liked your point “We are never going to get younger, but we are certainly going to live much longer these days and it is important to stay engaged and yes, work for as long as you wish.”