Say NO to Ageism!

As a forward-looking, progressive boss you want to create and manage a workplace where the employees are always inspired and motivated, where women do not feel discriminated but powerful and respected. But are you sure that you know all the reasons of women’s poor experiences at a workplace? It might come as a surprise to some, but according to recent statistics (2019), a woman’s age can have a more negative impact on her work experience than the issues such as race, marital status, body shape, etc.

While men earn respect and become “experts” as they age, women become “weaker” and more “emotional”, and “less motivated”, and “miss out” on the latest skill sets required to succeed. You might nod your head in disbelief, but there are still many managers and CEOs who believe these absurd gender stereotypes related to ageism.

So, the question of the day is HOW TO FIGHT AGEISM?

• Educate your employees to ensure they are up to date with the necessary skills and industry requirements.  Without separating men from women, organize bi-monthly workshops or master-classes to engage employees aged 40+.

• Do not ever distribute tasks based on employees’ age. By assuming that someone lacks the energy/drive/knowledge/experience you are spreading the separatist vibes, virtually dividing your employees. Instead, UNITE them by assigning the tasks without any regard to the age. Be more demanding when needed.

You should foster the spirit of endless self-development, you must motivate people to strive for more, don’t let your female employees feel useless because of age.

• Openly demonstrate how much you value the “aged” women. Make your appreciation explicit. Do not be afraid to promote a woman who is older than 45, do not hesitate to hire a woman who is not in her 20s anymore.

Dare to be kind and inclusive, and you will see the productivity of your company rise. Because women age as the fine wine – only better with each passing year!