Experience vs Age

Question

In a recent interview with a Staffing firm, the Recruiter said to me,  '...I am 51 and you are older than me'!  I did not respond to her statement. Just prior to leaving home to drive to my interview, I received an email from the Recruiter asking my mailing address.  Not sure, but if you google someone's name you can pull up their address, age, family members names, etc.   Q:  How do you respond?  Appreciate any advice on interviewing when I am clearly older, but very talented!

LEANNE TOBIAS · Answer

Having been in the same position, I feel your pain!  Here is what I would advise:

Either:

1.  Ignore the statement (as you did.)

2.  Comment briefly that your years of experience (or maturity) is what makes you the perfect fit for this role, and explain why.  Say that you are proud of your many prior successes and *be proud* of them.  Keep this brief and matter of fact.

As you are no doubt aware, the recruiter’s comment was illegal and could expose the company to an age discrimination lawsuit.  If you don’t get the job and know of or suspect that other 40+ applicants have been discriminated against, you might want to consult with a capable employment lawyer.  The offending company needs to clean up its act.

Anonymous · Answer

I think when appropriate, change that statement to your advantage with something like 'Yep, and with my experience, it makes me the best person for the job for X, Y, Z reasons.' Good luck!

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