Myths and Misconceptions about Age and Age Discrimination - a list

I have been doing research for and teaching a workshop titled 'Mid-life Career Changes in the New Economy' for the past 6 months now. Here are a few myths and misconceptions about age that I have seen:


Misconceptions about Age:
Myth:         ‘The Wage/Age Dilemma’—you save money by paying younger workers less…

Reality:      Training and Mistakes account for huge losses in profits. Older workers often need less training and have the experience to do the job better and faster.


Myth:         You have to be ‘old’ to suffer from Ageism…
Reality:      Age is relative and can be used as a basis for discrimination against both ‘young’ and ‘old.’

Myth:         Older people are not respected in our society…
Reality:      Recent studies show that the United States is one of the least ageist societies.

Myth:         Older workers cost more money through lost time and health care expenses…
Reality:      Younger workers tend to still have children at home, which results in more lost time and health care expenses. They also have more accident related injuries that result in longer time out.


Myths about Ageism

Myth: “If you don’t get a job and you are older it must be age discrimination…”
Reality: Job seekers often make mistakes in their job search long before ageism can occur.

Example: Employers scan resumes for 5-10 seconds. Resumes not targeted are discarded.

Myth: “Older workers are always discriminated against…”
Reality: Age is still an asset. Most companies still appreciate experience.
               Most teams still have older workers on them.
   Example: Companies like Weyerhaeuser, Boeing and Home Depot actually have programs in  place to retain and hire older workers. 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.

http://www.aarp.org/work/employee-benefits/best_employers/
                    www.employexperience.com

Myth: “Age discrimination is always about ‘AGE’…”
Reality: Ageism is often a euphemism for other concerns:
Employers are often ‘afraid’: -You will not be adaptable. You will not be manageable. You will not be good with technology. You are overqualified and you will ‘jump ship.’ Etc. 

The trick is to address these specific fears. Targeted cover letters, resumes and interview answers that show you as adaptable, team oriented and good with technology often eliminate age discrimination at its roots.

MORE INFO:

http://anthropologyofwork.blogspot.com/2011/10/10-step-method-for-combating-ageism-and.html