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Age Discrimination?
Not only is age discrimination illegal, it also reflects
bad business sense. Any forward-thinking company knows it’s
not a worker’s age that counts, it’s her ability
to get the job done--especially in today’s tight labor
market.
If you think you’ll face problems getting a job because
of your age, here are some tips to follow:
- Rely on your network.
People who know you personally will vouch for your ability
as a worker.
- Don’t mention your age. It’s also illegal for
an employer to ask how old you are.
- Use your age to your advantage. In interviews, stress
how your experience has prepared you to handle a multitude
of challenges--and give concrete examples.
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Dress to fit your personality, not your age. If you’re
naturally casual, you’ll feel comfortable in today’s
relaxed work environment. But if you’re the stockings-and-heels
type, don’t go overboard in the other direction and
dress like someone you’re not.
- If you feel you’ve been discriminated against because
of your age, seek help from an organization such as the
National Senior Citizens
Law Center or your state’s Equal Rights Commission
or labor agency.
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