Ageism.

Anonymous

April 14,2022 at 6:06PM UTC

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Ageism. Not outwardly acknowledged but still used by many companies as a means of hiring, promoting, or even termination under the quise of "right to work" employment.

I am currently job seeking in my late 50's, and believe I have another good 10 - 12 years of working. Since the Covid pandemic, are employers considering age in the hiring practice? Should I dye the gray out of my hair?

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AmyApril 14,2022 at 7:00PM UTC
I would not, but my friend did. Ageism is real. But for me, and depending on industry it comes down to "do you want to work somewhere that is ageist". Though depending on how badly you need the income may lead you to the hair dye aisle. Good luck on the job search.
David CallenApril 14,2022 at 11:50PM UTC
I agree that ageism is real and may in fact be something that folks are judging you. AND I would suggest being yourself and whatever you are most comfortable with doing and being in the interview process. The more authentic you are in the process, the more likely you will land a job in a place that accepts you for who you are, not who they want you to be.
That is coming from a place of privilege though, so if in fact, you are coming up to lots of dead ends and barriers, then you may adjust some things to land the job, but I would caution adjusting anything that would zap your personal integrity because if you do so that place does not deserve to have you working there.
Carmelita ErvinApril 15,2022 at 5:19PM UTC
What most companies do not seem to understand is that older workers possess a depth of knowledge and experience that’s worth paying for, is not easily replaced and can be tapped in many different ways. We know things that are essential to the company’s success, and if that knowledge is not captured that company is losing a tremendous chunk of capital and it’ll eventually pay a price.
One reason ageism remains an issue is simply our American culture. We live in a youth-obsessed society. The rise of technologies that didn’t even exist until many older people were already well into their careers has led to hiring biases. Many companies wrongly assume that younger workers will be more tech savvy. If you have a “senior moments” others don’t need to know, instead emphasize your worth. Our voices matter and need to be heard.