Challenging Ageism at Any Age
Ageism is everywhere.
Discrimination based on a person's age, is a pervasive issue in the workplace, particularly for mid-life professional women. Stereotypes and biases about age can negatively impact our career prospects, making it more challenging to advance in our chosen field. However, there are strategies we can use to combat ageism and advance our careers. Let’s explore some of these strategies and stories of women who have successfully overcome ageism in the workplace.
What is Ageism?
It’s a type of discrimination that involves stereotyping or making assumptions about a person based on their age. In the workplace, ageism can manifest in various ways, such as assuming that an older worker is less productive or less technologically savvy than a younger worker. Ageism can be directed at both younger and older workers, but it tends to impact older workers more frequently.
Women Who Have Overcome Ageism
Many professional women have successfully overcome ageism in the workplace, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to success. One such woman is Ursula Burns, the former CEO of Xerox, who became the first black woman to head a Fortune 500 company. Burns joined Xerox as an intern in 1980 and worked her way up through the ranks, eventually becoming CEO in 2009. Despite facing numerous challenges along the way, including ageism and sexism, Burns persevered, paving the way for other women and people of color to succeed in the business world.
Another woman who overcame ageism is Ruth Bader Ginsburg, the late Supreme Court justice who continued to work until her death at the age of 87. Ginsburg faced numerous challenges throughout her career, including being passed over for jobs due to her gender and being criticized for her age. However, she persevered, becoming a champion of women's rights and a role model for women of all ages.
Strategies for Combating Ageism
While ageism can be a challenging issue to combat, there are strategies we can use to overcome stereotypes and biases in the workplace. Here are some strategies to consider:
Highlight Your Experience and Expertise
One of the most effective ways to combat ageism is to highlight your experience and expertise. As mid-life professional women, we bring a wealth of knowledge and skills to our work. Be sure to highlight your accomplishments and contributions to your organization, both in your resume and during interviews.
Stay Current on Industry Trends and Technology
Another way to combat ageism is to stay current on industry trends and technology. This demonstrates that you are committed to ongoing learning and development and can dispel stereotypes about older workers being less tech-savvy. Consider taking courses or attending conferences to stay up-to-date on the latest industry developments.
Be Willing to Adapt and Embrace Change
Another effective strategy for combating ageism is to be willing to adapt and embrace change. This demonstrates that you are flexible and adaptable, rather than being stuck in old ways of doing things. Be open to new ideas and ways of working, and don't be afraid to try new things.
Seek Out Mentors and Allies
Having mentors and allies in the workplace can be an effective way to combat ageism. Seek out colleagues who are supportive and who can offer guidance and advice as you navigate your career. Consider joining professional organizations that can connect you with like-minded professionals who can offer support and networking opportunities.
Educate Others About Ageism
Finally, consider educating others about ageism and its impact on the workplace. This can involve having conversations with colleagues or sharing articles and resources on the topic. By raising awareness of ageism, we can work to combat stereotypes and biases and create a more inclusive workplace for all.
Ageism is a pervasive issue in the workplace, particularly for mid-life professional women. However, by utilizing strategies such as highlighting our experience and expertise, staying current on industry trends and technology, being willing to adapt and embrace change, seeking out mentors and allies, and educating others about ageism, we can combat stereotypes and biases and advance our careers.
Remember, age is just a number, and it doesn't define our worth or potential. Mid-life professional women bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the workplace, and we can continue growing and advancing in our careers. By staying proactive, adaptive, and committed to ongoing learning and development, we can overcome age-related biases and stereotypes and achieve greater success and fulfillment in our work.
As we continue to work towards greater inclusivity and equity in the workplace, it's essential to remain vigilant against ageism and other forms of discrimination. By working together and supporting one another, we can create a more inclusive and supportive work environment that values and celebrates the contributions of professionals of all ages.