Age discrimination is something we either face today or will face in sometime soon. If you don't know what it is like to be rejected just because of your age today you will likely experience that a little bit later. Obviously, employers won't ever tell you that directly, they will come up with all sorts of excuses why they can't hire you. Those job seekers who are over 50 have a hard time finding a good job because age is considered a weakness in today's fast-paced business environment. At least for most employers. And no matter how opposite you actually are from the employers' expectations it not so easy to get past this stereotype that senior workers are not worth hiring.
Beating Age Discrimination
Very often job seekers who are over 50 years old are tired to prove they are not worse than the rest of the candidates simply because of their age. As a result, they just quit because they don't know what to do and how to convince employers that they can be a better choice than the young candidates. The thing is that recent surveys prove that employees aged 50+ usually are more motivated, trying to utilize their past experience and knowledge to contribute to the company's success. Additionally, we believe that such experienced employees can bring in high engagement into the team as well as cultivate a more effective work environment. So how to pass these things on to a potential employer? Obviously, your experience is a key advantage because it is something young candidates don't have.
It always takes time to gain valuable experience and practical knowledge in any industry and that's something you've got. You know the practical side of things of what works and what doesn't work. Matching your experience to the requirements of the position you are applying for can be your strongest point. It will also demonstrate that you keep your skills up-to-date as this is something employers worry a lot about when hiring senior workers. Talking about yourself as the one learning and growing professionally will help employers understand that you are keeping up with industry standards and technologies. Another thing you should emphasize to beat age discrimination is to highlight your stability at work. Employers love to hire people who have been stable throughout their career. Pointing to the loyalty to past employers can be a good idea as it will demonstrate your long-term commitment. Go against employers' stereotypes and say that you've learned that the best way to succeed is to be engaged in the tasks and projects of the company. Prove that you have always had enough energy to be actively involved in the activities of the company.
