Although there is no such thing as a one-size-fits-all approach to creating a great workplace, many find it ideal when workers of all ages, educational backgrounds and experience levels can function together within a company. Unfortunately, some workers may face added hurdles that make this difficult if not altogether impossible. As the nature of the Florida workforce continues to change, age discrimination is not making things any easier for older workers.
A growing problem
According to AARP, professionals between the ages of 50 and 69 are reporting record high discrimination. Of those trying to reenter the job market or advance in their current field, 78% said they have faced age-based discrimination. Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the number of jobseekers aged 55 and older on long-term unemployment for longer than six months shot up 42.8% in Dec. 2021 alone.
What does age-based discrimination look like?
For a current worker, age discrimination may involve e being passed over for promotions in favor of younger, less qualified candidates. Discrimination may look a little differently for job seekers. Indications of age discrimination in this situation may include a potential employer:
- Telling an older candidate he or she is overqualified.
- Asking how old a candidate is during an interview.
- Refusing to schedule an interview based on things like graduation or work dates.
As people in Florida continue to live long, happy lives, working during later years often becomes a priority. Older workers also contribute a significant amount of knowledge and experience to the workplace, which can help younger workers. Age discrimination cuts off these opportunities for older workers. Victims of age discrimination often face uphill battles when it comes to income and career advancement as well, which is why some find it helpful to pursue compensation via the careful actions of a workplace discrimination lawsuit.