Age discrimination is a fact we cannot ignore. In fact, research shows that it is one of the most persistent forms of discrimination in our job market.
It occurs in job applications, promotions and also in day-to-day professional life. But Travvant, People First believes in breaking down these barriers and aims to provide job seekers with the right tools and mindset to overcome these challenges with determination.
First, let's delve deeper into what age discrimination means, how to recognize it and, more importantly, how to deal with it.
What is age discrimination?
Age discrimination refers to the unlawful treatment of individuals based on their age. In the context of work, this can manifest itself in not hiring applicants of a certain age, overlooking experienced employees in promotions, or even terminating employment contracts because of age.
It can range from subtle comments to actual exclusion from employment opportunities.
How do you recognize it?
Unfounded Remarks: Comments such as "Do you see yourself functioning within a young and dynamic team?" or "How long do you think you will be able to do this job?" can be a red flag.
Excessive Emphasis on Age: If job advertisements or job interviews focus primarily on age rather than skills and experience, there may be discrimination.
Limited Career Opportunities: If you find that your chances of advancement, training or promotion decrease as you age, this may indicate discrimination.
Absence of Diversity: If a company employs mostly younger workers and shows little diversity in age, this may indicate a lack of inclusiveness.
How do you deal with it?
Awareness is the first step. Refute stereotypes by highlighting your skills and accomplishments, seek support from colleagues and friends, and consider legal action if age discrimination persists.
We understand that there can be assumptions and doubts among companies when it comes to hiring people over 50. Breaking down these biases is essential to ensure that experienced professionals get the recognition they deserve.
Some common assumptions
- Reduced energy and productivity: A common misconception is that older workers would be less energetic and less productive. In reality, over-50s often bring steady, consistent energy and a wealth of experience, which can actually increase productivity.
- Less flexible and adaptable: There is also the assumption that older workers are less flexible and adaptable to change. However, the opposite is often true. Years of experience have taught over-50s to adapt to various situations and challenges.
- Less technologically savvy: A common doubt is that older workers are not as adept at modern technologies. In practice, however, many show great willingness to learn new technologies and can use their experience to find innovative solutions.
- Short work duration: Companies sometimes fear that people over 50 will only stay on the job for a short period of time. In reality, many are looking for long-term and meaningful involvement with an organization, which can add stability to the workforce
- Less willingness to change: It is also sometimes thought that older workers are less willing to learn new things. The opposite is true - people over 50 often have a strong intrinsic motivation to expand their knowledge and skills.
Travvant, People First helps job-seeking people over 50 break these assumptions and show companies that people over 50 are a valuable and necessary addition to the workforce.
Old or Gold: 10 Tips for people over 50 on the job market
Now that you understand more about age assumptions and discrimination, we want to share 10 valuable tips for entering the job market with confidence, regardless of your age.
- Embrace your experience: Your work history is an asset, not a burden. Show how your experience adds value to an organization. You bring valuable expertise to the table and your future employer can benefit from it. Speak in terms of past challenges and solutions so it is clear that you are the right person for the job!
- Networking works: In addition to a backpack filled with expertise, knowledge and experience, as a person over 50 you usually have an extensive professional network. Don't forget to inform these contacts about your search for a new job. They know you inside out and may have tips on interesting job opportunities. Connections can open doors that would otherwise remain closed.
- Keep learning: Keep your skills up-to-date. Take workshops and courses to stay relevant. This will show your future employer that you are eager to learn and have up-to-date knowledge for the job.
- Resume and LinkedIn: These are your professional business cards that open the doors to a first interview! Make sure both emphasize your accomplishments and results. Show what you have accomplished in previous positions. Provide a professional and contemporary appearance. Get help from your coach to optimize these tools
- Flexibility: Don't be too rigid but show willingness to learn new things or be flexible in terms of duties or work hours.
- Online visibility: Invest in your online presence. Your LinkedIn profile can be a powerful tool for this. Show who you are, what your expertise is and what your professional value can be to a company.
- Job interview training: improve your interview skills. Good preparation increases your self-confidence. Follow our workshops and webinars and practice with your coach!
- Self-reflection: Ask yourself what you really want in your career at this point in your life. What are priorities for you? Do you still want that high position with accompanying responsibility or would you rather go in a different direction? Perhaps you are looking for a job with a little more free time, for example, to have more time for your (grand)children or a hobby or secondary occupation? Dare to step out of your comfort zone.
- Be proactive: Don't wait for that perfect job posting to come along but be proactive. Find targeted companies and contacts and write to them. Ask for an informal conversation to see what opportunities there are for you within the company.
- Share experiences: Take part in our workshop "50plus - Old or Gold. Meet like-minded people, share experiences and learn from each other's success stories.
At Team Travvant, we believe that age is just a number and that your experience is a valuable asset to any workplace. With the right mindset and support, every person over 50 is worth 'gold' in the job market. Together, we make sure your talents shine, regardless of your age!
Employers, consider the benefits of hiring people over 50. Experience brings not only wisdom, but also a wealth of skills and a lot of drive, commitment and motivation.
Together, let's enrich the job market with age diversity and fully utilize the talents of experienced professionals.