“Are you sure you want this job?" “Don’t you want to retire soon?”

This is part one in a series of ageism-related blogs focusing on the personal, professional, and emotional impact caused by this ever-growing phenomenon.

Those are the EXACT words that came from a CxO (albeit with a smirk on their face) while I was sitting face to face in a conference room with only a table between us for a final job interview. Enter ageism.

By The Numbers

According to SHRM Research conducted in 2023, nearly one-third (32 percent) of HR professionals say applicant's age played a role in decisions their organization made during the job application process. To refine further, the percentage of US job seekers ages 55+ who were long-term unemployed in January was 25.7 percent compared to 18 percent of job seekers ages 16 to 54*. 

Let’s Face It - Ageism is Real

During my marketing career, a blatant ageism incident happened during a customer conference. One of my coworkers (who was also in her 50s) and I were told by our manager that our participation in an onstage video shoot with the rest of the team (20s and 30s) wasn’t needed. When I questioned this decision (I was not going to let this go), he responded “I’m sure you have been in several videos during your career.” smiling ever so innocently. Although I escalated the matter, the response was I was being overly sensitive.  WRONG! 

“You’re Being Too Sensitive or Taking Things Out of Context!” Let’s get a show of hands if you have heard those words. I’m envisioning a lot of hands raised. These are phrases and excuses given to both men and women, trying to downplay the discrimination against the recipient of these emotionally harsh words.

Ageism does not only exist in the workplace. Look around, it's everywhere. Picture sitting at a restaurant bar with the “hope” of ordering food and drinks when suddenly the bartender turns his attention to a group of young women. After waiting 20 minutes and trying all things humanly possible to gain his attention, unsuccessfully, we were left with no choice but to leave. Although I was able to follow up with his manager and express my concern, the response was the restaurant was busy and everyone needed to be patient. Well, not everyone had to be patient.  Here’s a great video spoof on restaurant age discrimination that I think you will enjoy.

Impact of Ageism Training 

I only have one word to describe ageism training and implementation  … BULL 💩

How many times as an employee or manager have you had to watch useless training videos on ageism and discrimination?  I can easily count over 20+ times with the same bad actors, the same multiple-choice questions, and no accountability in the workplace. Please challenge me if I’m wrong and you saw value or enforcement in your organization.  

It is a fact that no matter what organization you work for, there are clear and utter acts of ageism blatantly staring you in the face. How many times have you heard “You look great for YOUR age” or “What year did you graduate from college”, you must be as OLD as my parents” or “Do you know how to …”  

4 Steps on Combating Ageism

✅ Make your voice heard - Calling someone out on inappropriate behavior can be uncomfortable, but it’s the best way to combat prejudice.

✅ Stay active and engaged - A great way to subvert people’s expectations of older adults.

✅ Be as independent as possible - Helping you feel more empowered and autonomous in your day-to-day life.

✅ Take time for self-reflection - Be confident and self-assured. Treat yourself with the respect and trust you deserve, and the people around you will follow suit. Your efforts can make a difference in the lives of others.

Remember You’re Amazing

By the way, I was offered the position and proved, as an older adult in the workforce, that I could capable deliver above-expectation results with a high degree of stamina, confidence, and respect while blowing out revenue targets. 

About Castle I Group

At Castle I Group, our mission is to provide a holistic approach to both personal and professional development. We are dedicated to partnering with individuals looking to navigate a work-life balance, explore a career transition, overcome ageism bias issues, as well as explore self-discovery. Through one-on-one coaching sessions, you will learn to create a positive mindset opening a path to clarity, empowerment, self-confidence, and self-worth. Together we will create your journey of reaching your full potential!

To stay up to date on Castle I Group news, please sign up for our monthly newsletter, YOU'RE AMAZING.

Sign Me Up

*Bureau of Labor and Statistics, February 2024