Tackling Ageism in the Workplace and the Job Market
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Ageism is prevalent and rampant, manifesting itself in various areas like recruitment, hiring, promotions, rewards and recognition of one's contributions in the workplace. It has become an unfortunate reality in the labour market and across workplaces, significantly affecting both job seekers and employees.
The Impact of Ageism on Workers Over 40, 50, and 60
In our work as HR consultants, we sometimes witness ageism even in one's 40s, negatively affecting individuals during their prime creative and productive years and frequently leading to exclusion from job opportunities and the labour market.
Due to ageism, individuals in their 50s and 60s often face exclusion from job opportunities or are offered limited, low-paid positions, typically in the form of interim or short-term contracts.
Many find themselves turning to freelancing or volunteering in a desperate effort to re-enter the workforce and secure income for themselves and their families.
A recent study has revealed that a substantial 62% of individuals aged 50 and above perceive an enduring prevalence of age-related discrimination, while a significant 93% acknowledge the widespread nature of ageism within work environments. This highlights the necessity for understanding ageism and taking proactive measures to combat it.
Intersections of Ageism
Ageism, as a form of bias and discrimination, intersects with various identity factors, such as gender, race, disability, and sexuality. A female job candidate has recently shared:
"In the real world, many of us are struggling to find a job; even the Job Centres don't help in any way. I was told that because my husband is working, I would not be called or scheduled for any job interview."
This indicates a clear intersection between age and gender, revealing discrimination. Recognising the intersections of ageism is pivotal, given that ageism takes on distinct forms based on these factors.
By understanding these subtleties, employers can implement targeted strategies to effectively address ageism, fostering inclusive workplaces that accommodate diverse identities and ages.
The Inception of England's First Anti-Ageism Campaign
Two weeks ago, the Centre for Ageing Better launched England's first ever anti-ageing campaign Age Without Limits, in an attempt to highlight the issue of ageism.
The charity warns of the ‘scarring’ impact of ageism on us as we get older – on our health, job prospects and the way we live our lives with a knock-on effect on our families, society and the economy.
Jacynth Bassett , Founder of Ageism Is Never In Style? & The Bias Cut, whose organisation takes part in this campaign, said:
“With our population ageing, retirement age increasing, and over 50s being encouraged back into the workforce, it’s vital that women over 50 feel seen and valued. And yet, as our survey shows, not only do women still not feel truly represented as they age, but they are internalising negative attitudes around ageing as a result. This is detrimental to themselves and to society at large.
At the launch, the Centre for Ageing Better explained the aims of the campaign:
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“Through this movement, we will aim to change the way we all think about ageing and support a growing movement of people and organisations working to make society more age-inclusive. Ageism is a prejudice hidden in plain sight, in our everyday media, on TV, at work and more but it doesn't have to be this way.”
We believe you may find the following information useful.
Ageism in the Workplace
Five ways to make your business age-friendly
Sign up to the Age-friendly Employer Pledge
The Age-friendly Employer Pledge is a nationwide programme for employers who recognise the importance and value of older workers.
CEO Statement: People Director Stands Against Ageism in the Workplace and the Job Market
"We at People Director are pleased to support this campaign. Recognising the collective experience of our team members, who are in their 40s , 50s, and 60s, we understand the significance of this campaign in fostering awareness and supporting 'older workers' to secure their rightful place in the workforce. We appreciate the efforts of employers, professional organisations, and individuals in addressing ageism in the workplace and in the job market". Anna B. Hayhurst CEO & Global People Director
Read more about ageism at: https://www.agewithoutlimits.org/what-ageism
#AgeWithoutLimits #AreYouAgeist #ageismcampaign #uk #peopledirector #labourmarket #recruiting #hiring #edi #dei
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Chief People Officer (CPO) - Hiring across UK, US, Europe, India, China and Southeast Asia
1 年Damien Barnett I thought this might be of interest to you. Also, thanks for sharing the photo of the campaign's billboard the other day.
CEO @mojeek | No-Tracking Search Engine
1 年This seems to be more rampant than in the past. I first experienced it aged 45. It took me 9 months to find an employer willing to hire me, and that was a temporary part-time job. Have you had a similar experience?