Age discrimination is still prevalent in the workplace despite laws prohibiting it. A significant majority of workers who are 45 and above have reported that they’ve faced discrimination at their job because of their age.
If your employer is treating you differently or discriminating against you because of your age, they probably know that it’s illegal. Therefore, it helps to understand the subtle tell-tale signs of workplace age discrimination. Let’s look at a few.
Younger workers are seemingly favored or preferred
You may find that older employees are getting fired or offered deals to “retire” and that the hiring culture favors younger workers. Additionally, new learning opportunities, employer support for furthering one’s knowledge and skills or even promotions may be automatically offered to younger workers.
Older workers are tasked with unpleasant duties or shifts
Your employer may move you to a “less-hectic” department without valid reasons or assign you unfavorable work shifts. Such random job reassignments could be a subtle sign of age discrimination.
Disparaging comments or remarks about your age
Negative remarks made jokingly about your age and how it affects your ability to work can amount to age discrimination. For instance, your employer may joke about how you gasp for breath when coming up the stairs or make snide comments about your age by asking your thoughts on early retirement. Such subtle remarks may also point to ageism at your job.
What can you do about it?
If you are facing age discrimination at your workplace, it is crucial to take appropriate action against your employer. Talking to a representative in your HR department is a good first start. You can also seek guidance from a legal professional who knows the laws and your rights as an employee.
