How Do You Fight Age Discrimination in the Workplace?

Business LoungeJuly 1, 2017

Those Who Know That They Are Still Productive Can Get Past Through Age Discrimination

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Companies take the age factor into account when they search for people to join their team. Even if there are laws in certain countries that protect workers against discrimination, private organizations manage to get their way and pick candidates based on their standards and beliefs.

Their justifications include hiring older people costs more, older people get easily tired, or younger people have more room to grow. Although studies show there is no real evidence to support the basis used in age discrimination. Many companies still insist on their assumptions. Given this seemingly unfair reality, you should not allow age discrimination to deter you from landing your desired job or pursuing a career. There are ways to battle this predicament, and we’ll show you how.

Work on your image

The image refers not only to the physical appearance but the knowledge and skills that you have. Starting with the way you carry yourself. It pays to know how to always look well-groomed and polished. You don’t have to dress up like the younger generation to look current. By finding what would look good on you and makes you feel comfortable, you are already making an important step to taking your image to the next level.

Capitalize on your network

Your network can either make or break you. That is why it is so important to develop and maintain as wide a network as possible. Your connections can assist you when promoting your services especially if you’ve gained their trust. A good work relationship is paramount because you may need those people later. There is truth to the saying that “you should not burn your bridges.” Your network can give that endorsement to an employer who may be contemplating on hiring you. But if you don’t have a good network, you may not have enough positive feedback to give you that extra nudge.

Adopt the ‘9999’ tactic

The technology age has now enabled more and more companies to computerize some parts of their screening process. Programs have been developed to eliminate resumes not meeting the required keywords. One way to get past this (especially if an organization has yet to update its computerized forms), as suggested by some experts, is to put in ‘9999’ to populate the field and therefore let you submit your resume.

“There is a fountain of youth: it is your mind, your talents, the creativity you bring to your life and the lives of people you love. When you learn to tap this source, you will truly have defeated age.” – Sophia Loren

Volunteer what you know and can do

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Have the confidence to go out there and offer your expertise to companies. You can bring your wealth of knowledge and skills through coaching, mentor, or consulting arrangement. You can also consider a speaking engagement where you would present your ideas and know-how. For such a gig, collaborate with professional organizations initially. This is because these groups are composed of people who can potentially refer you to their companies.

Create your own job

If you still can’t seem to snag the job that you’re eyeing, then perhaps it’s time to sit down and make a plan. Tap into your creative juices. Identify the work activities that you would still want to do and enjoy. Then start putting your list to work. Your best bet is starting your own business which can be related to the previous career or job that you’ve had. Consider consulting, freelance work, or maybe, being a full-fledged entrepreneur. Use the time at your disposal to carefully prepare a plan and set up your own business. Remember that you have your own set of skills, knowledge, and expertise that still make you marketable.

Your age need not stop you from chasing your dream or getting that sought-after job. You can do something about the situation only if you believe in yourself.