Many California residents have recently had to switch to working from home. Experts are speculating that the remote environment may actually be better suited for older workers who have previously been subject to age discrimination in the workplace. Some are suggesting that the skills that these older workers possess may make them more effective in a remote working environment than younger workers.
Even though age bias is illegal, it’s still prevalent in many workplaces. There is not yet the same societal distaste for age discrimination as there is for other types of bias. Many workers have not even been fully trained on how to deal with and avoid this type of discrimination. Some technology companies even inadvertently perpetuate age bias among their employees. This happens because they stereotype younger employees as being more technologically savvy than older workers.
However, older workers are often viewed as being better problem solvers and critical thinkers. When it comes to telework, these are skills that help someone become a better employee. Once older employees can better learn how to transition to a remote environment, their inherent “soft skills” will make them more effective. In the meantime, companies need to vigorously retool their training programs to make it clear to their employees that age discrimination is every bit as illegal as the other types. Employees must also know how to spot and avoid potential instances of discrimination.
People who believe that they are victims of age discrimination in a professional setting can sue their employer or the company that refused to hire them for damages. They should consult an employment law attorney to learn more about how they can file a lawsuit against the company and receive financial compensation for the conduct that they were forced to endure.