Age Discrimination: 3 Things You Need to Know

Age discrimination isn’t just a concern for grandpa. Young professionals are also seeing the effects of judgement based on their age.

Recent studies indicate experiences of age discrimination were more common for younger groups, with those under 25 at least twice as likely to have experienced it than other age groups. While older generations clearly still experience age discrimination — especially when looking for a job — it may surprise you to discover that the same could happen to you.

So what do you need to know about age discrimination? What are the warning signs and what should you do about it?

What is age discrimination?

In general, age discrimination is referred to as ageism. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), age discrimination involves treating someone (an applicant or employee) less favorably because of their age. Though it may be hard to pinpoint, ageism can be anything from subtle stereotypes about your age (“Those Millennials are just so lazy!”) to overt harassment and discrimination (“She’s too young to handle this job.”)

The Commission also notes discrimination can come from a boss, a supervisor in another area, someone you work with, or someone who isn’t employed directly, such as a client or customer. While it should never be the role of the victim to combat ageism, it’s worth knowing how to identify it and with whom it can occur.

Are there laws that can protect me?

Yes and no. The EEOC passed a law called The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) in 1967, but it only outlaws age discrimination against people who are age 40 or older. So, if you’re a young professional, it may not protect you. However, the EEOC notes some states do have laws to protect younger workers from age discrimination. Plus, with increased buzz about the topic, changes may be on the horizon.

The ADEA protects victims in all stages of the employment process, including hiring, pay, layoffs, promotions, assignments, benefits, etc. It’s also important to note timeframes when possible. Unfortunately, you have either 180 days or 300 days from the date of discrimination to file with the EEOC, this can also vary by state.

What are the warning signs?

The warning signs of age discrimination may not be black and white, but any sort of repetition or odd behavior are some things you need to note. For instance:

• Calling you age-related names
• Harassment
• Comparing you to older workers
• Making comments that make you feel less capable
• Giving a promotion to someone who is clearly not qualified (but older)
• Favoritism towards others

These should be red flags. Be sure to keep track of the actions of your employer or team member, including date, time, and if there was anyone there who can vouch for you.

Though age discrimination is a complicated matter, knowing your rights and the warning signs can help you to find better employers, which will in turn give you a better professional experience.

What do you think? Did you know about the ADEA? Have you been affected by age discrimination?

Photo courtesy of Social Innovation Camp; Flickr