What You Can and Can't Do About Age Bias

Do these thoughts enter your mind while you are on the job or applying for jobs? Answer either “yes” or “no” to each of these statements, then score yourself according to the directions below.

1. My application or resume is never acknowledged.
2. The interviewer was young enough to be my child. That company doesn’t value my experience.
3. I’m passed over for additional training that I need to stay current.
4. The jobs always go the young, good-looking people.
5. The minute they looked at my gray hair, I knew I had no chance.
6. The promotions go to the young up-and-comers. Experience is ignored.
7. I was laid off, and within a month, a younger person was hired to do my job.
8. Whenever there is a layoff, the oldest go first.
9. Employers will say that I’m overqualified and that I’ll become bored with the job.
10. I’ve heard comments about “dinosaurs” and “old people” being in the way.

If you answered “yes” to…

1 to 3 questions: You feel unaffected by age bias, perceived or otherwise. You also feel secure in your job.
4 to 6 questions: You’re getting worried about age bias. Think about what you can do to refocus your attitude and your efforts.
7 or more questions: You are on your way to turning into the bitter employee you swore you’d never become. Get an attitude adjustment. Be positive about your wisdom and experience!

National Employment Lawyers Association (NELA): With over 3,000 members, NELA is the country’s largest professional organization exclusively comprised of lawyers who represent individuals in cases involving employment matters. There is a directory where you can search for a lawyer near you.

Workplace Fairness
Workplace Fairness is a non-profit organization which helps to preserve and promote employee rights. Learn more about employment issues in your state.