Title: Definition: Age Discrimination | Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action
Headings: Definition: Age Discrimination
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Definition: Age Discrimination
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Content: Stereotypes to be avoided include: beliefs that older workers are less flexible and unable to learn new procedures, particularly new technologies; that they are likely to retire soon; that they will resent a younger supervisor; that they are overqualified and won’t be happy. In fact, today’s career patterns show that many people work far longer than traditional retirement age. The longer employment life span means that careers often take different paths at different stages, and their length can rarely be anticipated. In other words, employment decisions regarding older and younger workers should be based on the person’s skills and abilities. Do not reject a candidate because the person is over qualified. Offer the salary you can pay, commensurate with other employees in comparable positions, describe the duties accurately, and let the candidate decide whether to accept it.