Top 10 Ways to Overcome Age Discrimination

RetirementJobs.com Staff Writers

Age discrimination is widely perceived to exist and there is evidence that age-based discrimination is a harsh reality. The question at hand is should you be concerned?

Academic, government and private research confirms the reality and consequences of age discrimination. So what? Knowing about it, and believing you will be a target, will not help you get an interview or a job offer. Proving age Discrimination during a job search is near impossible – and probably not worth your time. While there are indications that age discrimination in recruiting is subsiding slowly, you need a job now!

Recruiters, employers, consultants and successful age 50+ job seekers all agree on what you can do to overcome or at least minimize the likelihood you will be subjected to age discrimination while seeking work in retirement.

1. Dismiss Age Discrimination Thoughts - Flip that mental age Discrimination switch to the “off” position. Think age-neutral. Focus on “connecting” to the interviewer before any real questioning starts. Banish any thoughts that reflect “reverse age Discrimination” where you believe a young person can’t possibly understand you – get them to understand your enthusiasm, skills, interests and ability to contribute.

2. Emphasize Capabilities, Not Experience - We have learned to equate experience to depth and strength of capabilities – don’t do it. It generally serves to de-emphasize duration of experience. Focus on the capabilities acquired during your work life.

3. Buy a Computer, Cell Phone, iPhone or PDA Device - Employers expect to be able to communicate with you by electronic mail (email). Showing that you are technology “savvy’ is a good thing. Not owning a computer can be a “showstopper”. You can buy a serviceable desk top or lap top computer for $400 to $600. You will also need an internet service provider (PeoplePC, AOL, Yahoo, or your local phone or cable TV provider). At the very least, you’ll want to be able to say, “You can always reach me on my cell phone”.

4. Acquire Basic Computer Skills - With few exceptions, many jobs require a fundamental working knowledge of computer skills. Start with Microsoft Office applications beginning with Word (word processing), then Outlook (basis for most corporate email systems, then Excel (spreadsheets), and finally PowerPoint (for presentations). Learn how to perform internet research on Google and similar sites. Check community colleges and adult education centers for classes or signup here to take a class online.