Tackling Age Bias in the Job Search

Age bias is a well-known problem in the job search market. Overt discrimination of older workers, and low expectations of them in the job search process, are all too common. The challenge of tackling age bias in the job search process is a complex one.

Common Challenges for Older Workers

Older workers often face a number of challenges when trying to enter or re-enter the workforce. These include ageism in the job market, employers tending to value younger workers more highly, and companies being reluctant to invest in training older workers.

Age bias can lead to lower salaries for older workers, less favourable job offers, and ultimately fewer job opportunities available to them. Additionally, ageist beliefs and perceptions can be perpetuated unknowingly in conversations and interactions between employers and job seekers.

How to Minimise the Likelihood of Age Bias

The best defence against ageism is to be prepared. Job seekers can take the following steps to minimise the chances of age bias in the job search process:

• Understand how to tackle age discrimination by researching anti-discrimination laws, familiarising yourself with best practices for age-related language, and being aware of any workplace policies on age.
• Boost your digital skills and ensure your online presence reflects your capacity for modern work.
• Establish a personal network to access/build job opportunities.
• Focus on your transferable skills, enabling you to highlight the relevance and value of your experience in a modern context.
• Highlight any qualifications, training, and certifications you may have acquired.

Negotiating Your Salaries and Benefits

Negotiating salaries and benefits when applying for a job is important in demonstrating to employers the value you have to offer. When tackling age bias, it is important to make sure that you are aware of the salary range for the role in order to negotiate your pay successfully. It can be helpful to practice the salary negotiation process before your job interview.

Platforms to Connect with Recruiters and Employers

Online job search platforms are a great way to connect with potential employers and recruiters. Many recruiters and employers offer exclusive access to job postings, providing an opportunity for job seekers to showcase their skills and abilities. Taking the time to create and cultivate a professional profile on these platforms can be a valuable tactic in tackling age bias in the job search.

Creating an Accessible Job Resume

An easily accessible and well-structured job resume is essential for getting noticed by potential employers. Job seekers should focus on creating a resume that highlights their key skills, qualifications, and experience in order for recruiters and employers to make an informed judgement. Anything that may accidently reveal the age of the job seeker should be removed. It is important to make sure the resume is current, accurate, and targeted.

Making the Most of Your Age and Experience

Age and experience can be incredibly valuable assets in the job search process. It is essential for job seekers to draw attention to the valuable experience they have gained over the years. It is also important to make sure the resume reflects different varieties of work experience, including informal and voluntary work.

Takeaways

The job search process can be intimidating for older workers, especially in light of the complex nature of age bias. However, by understanding how to tackle age bias, job seekers can improve their prospects and find employment opportunities that match their skills and qualifications.

By following the steps outlined above, older workers can make the most of their age and experience, showcase their value to potential employers, and make their job search journey a success.