3 types of jobs where workers may face age discrimination

Age discrimination can result in unfair setbacks for workers who should be at the height of their earning potential. According to federal rules, age discrimination occurs when a worker over the age of 40 receives different treatment than younger employees.

Employers can use experience and education to limit who they consider for open positions by excluding younger candidates. However, employers should not deny workers opportunities because of their more advanced age. Unfortunately, that is exactly what many employees experience. Businesses treat them differently as they become more mature. They may then find themselves struggling to keep their jobs, find new employment or continue developing their careers.

What professions have the highest risk of age discrimination?

1. Blue-collar professions

According to an analysis conducted by AARP, nine of the 10 jobs that see the highest levels of age discrimination are blue-collar professions. Painters, factory workers and construction professionals may find that employers do extend them the same consideration after a certain age. Those professionals may then struggle to support themselves despite committing years of their lives to their careers. Concerns about reduced physical capability and increased injury risk may factor into employers engaging in age discrimination against older blue-collar professionals.

2. Sales professionals

Those working directly with customers and clients often rely in no small part on their appearance. Being friendly or even flirty can help people close sales. Therefore, visibly advanced age can affect the job performance and success of those who have worked in sales. In some cases, employers may discriminate against older salespeople by giving them fewer leads or choosing to eliminate their position when downsizing. Female sales professionals may be especially vulnerable to such discrimination.

3. Technology specialists

Technology is one of the niche areas of the economy where ageism seems almost innate. Quite a few people believe that older adults simply cannot adjust to changes in technology. They may then allow their personal beliefs to influence the career opportunities extended to those who may be fully capable of coding software or physically repairing technological devices.

Age discrimination can look like mistreatment in the workplace, a lack of opportunities or unfair termination. Those who have experienced career setbacks because of age discrimination may need to consider filing a lawsuit. Holding employers accountable can potentially help workers to regain their jobs or secure compensation to offset the harm of employer discrimination.