Tips to prevent age discrimination at work
Many adults face age discrimination when they are searching for jobs. Age discrimination also frequently occurs within the workplace when others unfairly view older employees as being less able to handle their jobs. Unconscious bias against older workers is a serious problem in workplaces in New Jersey and across the U.S. It is especially problematic for older people who are unemployed. When they try to find employment, their interviewers might be much younger and have concerns that the older applicants might not fit in with the younger employees or believe that they should not hire them because they might not be employable on a long-term basis. Age discrimination in the workplace and during the hiring process is illegal. If you think that you have been the victim of unlawful age discrimination, you should talk to the attorneys at Swartz Swidler.
Fighting against age discrimination
Employers should implement policies to prevent age discrimination in the workplace. However, most of the burden of fighting against age discrimination is placed on the employees. If you are over age 40, you could face discrimination based on your age. While you cannot change your co-workers’ beliefs, you can fight against age discrimination by taking action.
Make sure that you stay up-to-date on the latest information specific to your industry and on current technology. Remaining current helps you to remain relevant at your company. Keep your appearance professional by dressing nicely and following good hygiene and grooming practices. Exercise regularly to maintain good health.
At your job, try to introduce novel ways and ideas to increase the efficiency of your workplace. Use strong interpersonal and communication skills to cement your place in the workplace. Keeping your appearance modern in your choice of clothing and hairstyle is also a good idea. The front office staff will normally tell the human resources department of their first impressions of people who arrive for interviews. Keeping a neat and contemporary appearance can help you to make a good first impression.
Pay attention to your accessories
Make sure your accessories are attractive and avoid wearing shoes that are scuffed or outdated. Accessorize with a nice handbag or portfolio to make a great impression. For example, if you carry a new designer purse to your interview, it might make you seem more relatable to a younger person who is interviewing you.
Keep current with technology
Technology continually advances. Companies want to find workers who have the technical skills needed for their jobs. Learn the types of programs and software that are most commonly used in your industry, and take a course if needed to gain a thorough understanding of how to use it. Make sure to use professional social media sites like LinkedIn. Learn how to use other modern tools such as Skype, Slack, and Flowdock. Having technological fluency can help you to talk in the type of language employers might look for when they are hiring for different positions and demonstrate that you have the skills needed to handle the tasks of your job.
Be adaptable
Since strategies constantly change at many companies, it is important for you to be adaptable so that you can remain relevant. This will also help you to learn new things that could help you to advance in your career while you stay at your company. Be an early adopter so that you can model good behavior for younger workers.
Create good interpersonal relationships
Make sure to build good relationships with your co-workers. Join in discussions and acknowledge that you can learn things from the younger people at your workplace. This helps you to earn the respect of younger employees and supervisors while also creating good interpersonal relationships with them.
Even though you have worked longer and have more experience, you will not automatically be respected by younger employees. It also does not mean that the way in which you do things is the best approach. Being willing to listen to others and adopt some of their good ideas while also giving advice can help you to earn respect.
Remain current with changes in your industry
You should always strive to stay current with changes in your field. Attend conferences, read journals, and talk regularly with your colleagues about your industry. If you come across a new process that could improve the business operations of your company, be sure to share it.
Stay at your current company
If you are older, it is a good idea to stay at your current job. It is much more difficult for older people to find jobs. You do not want to struggle to find work unless you are pursuing a new career field. Striving to improve your situation at your current company is a better idea. Use your strengths to your advantage and show your employer your value each day.
If you are out of work and struggling to find a job in your field, you might want to consider a career change. Look over your resume and review your skills to determine if your career choice is still relevant. Transitioning to a new line of work might be in order if your skills and career choice are outdated.
Get help from an age discrimination attorney
Age discrimination is illegal and pervasive. While you can take steps to try to prevent becoming a victim of it, you might still struggle with finding work or discriminatory practices at your job based on your age. If you believe that you have been the victim of illegal age discrimination, contact Swartz Swidler today by calling us at (856) 685- 7420.
