Myths about Age Discrimination in the Job Market

I am in the process of preparing a workshop about age discrimination in today’s economy. As I collect information and compare it to my own experiences 2 things stand out:


1. Age discrimination exists and it does have a negative effect on some people's job search.

2. Many people have misconceptions about what ageism actually is and how it is manifested.


One good step toward understanding any topic is to define it in contrast to what it is not.

So, toward that end, I would like to list here some common myths about Ageism:


Myth 1: If you don’t get a job and you are older it is automatically age discrimination.

The Reality: Most job seekers are simply making mistakes in their job search long before ageism ever takes place. If you have an ineffective resume or you are not targeting your cover letter AND resume to each specific job (and company culture) you apply to. You are not being discriminated against. You are being passed over for people who go the extra mile and really connect themselves to the specific job they are appying to.

Myth 2: Older workers are always discriminated against.

The Reality: Most companies still appreciate experience and most teams still have older workers on them. Like all job seekers, it is best for older workers to focus on company cultures, NOT job titles. You will probably not be happy working for a company that does not share your values. If a company is looking for young people just out of college it is their loss…move on to a company that appreciates what you have to offer.

Myth 3: Age discrimination is all about AGE.

The Reality: Most ageism is actually a euphemism for other concerns. Employers are afraid you will not be adaptable, manageable or that you will not be good with technology. The trick is to address those specific fears. (TARGETED cover letters and resumes that show you as adaptable, team oriented and good with technology tend to eliminate age discrimination at its root.)

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Stating these myths should not overshadow the fact that ageism is very real and damaging to people. At its essence, ageism occurs when older workers or seen stereotypically and not as individuals. This is a huge problem in the job market where 'fit' is everything. However, before you can overcome the real issues of age discrimination it is important to see what it is not…Once you have done that, you can work on developing your Brand to the point that age discrimination is a moot point.

http://anthropologyofwork.blogspot.com/2010/10/what-is-my-brand-and-why-should-i-care.html