Age Discrimination
There is no getting around it, age discrimination exists. You may have been the best waitress on the planet, but there are restaurants and bars who will not hire you because you don’t look good in tight clothing with a bare midriff. There are companies, who will not hire older men because of their mature appearance or the fact they may not be able to represent the company as being youthful and energetic. It could be the grey hair, the comb-over or a million other reasons the “over qualified” excuse was used for not getting hired.
Not all, but some older workers get back exactly what they put out. Somewhere along the way they stopped looking after themselves, stopped trying to keep up to date, stopped trimming the nose and ear hair, and basically started projecting a “been there done that” kind of attitude.
Looking for a good job at any age is a challenge and there is extra pressure put on mature workers. Plus, they are often concerned about being able to make the kind of money they were making in their last position which is another reason some employers will avoid an experienced worker.
There is no magic bullet to this problem but there are steps older workers can take to improve their chances of landing another good job. It can start by taking a long hard look in the mirror. Now, obviously we can not go back to looking the way we did twenty to thirty years ago, but we can update our look. A haircut and new clothes can go a long way. Besides, it is not about looking thirty again, it is about looking like you fit in. Part two to this equation is attitude. If you make age an issue it will be an issue. So check your attitude at the door and remember that keener in you, exude passion for the line of work you’re seeking. It really comes down to your ability to sell yourself. Oh, and if you need help in that department, talk to an employment counsellor.
There are two types of age discrimination, one is prejudice and the other is ignorance. You will not be able to win over a prejudice employer. You may, however, be able to positively influence an ignorant employer by selling him or her the benefits that come with hiring someone with your experience.
Your comments are welcome.
Glen Slingerlands – Skills 101 / Job Development
posted by Chilliwack Employment Services @ 1:22 PM
1 Comments
1 Comments:
Ah yes! The look of a deer in the headlights when your interviewer comes around the corner and introduces himself/ herself. Who lot this old duffer into the building? At the ripe old age of 55 I have seen that expression numerous times. Some hide it better then others, but you always feel it. It is true that some are acting out of ignorance, those people usually warm up to you after a while during the interview. Then there are those who can truly be ignorant.
I had one lady at a very prominent nursery here in Chilliwack come by and pick up my resume which I had just handed to the receptionist and raise her eyebrows. I had applied for a laborer's position. I am still pretty strong and can do a full day's work without needing ressusitation at the end of the day. This lady waved my resume at me and scolded me." You know that this job calls for physical work!" I am 6' and weigh 245 lbs and could have lifter her with one arm. I was told by those in the know that this was one of the best places in Chilliwack to work. I don't think so!
There are others who have no qualms about hiring someone 45+. At least they know that they will be getting someone who will show up for work every day, and not disappear after the first payday
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