Dive Brief:
- Millennials in tech companies receive the "lion’s share" of promotions, according to a new study — and that's despite older workers' strong performance records. According to Visier Insights Database: Ageism in Tech; the frequency of promotions in tech declines rapidly after age 36.
- The report also shows that the average age for tech workers is 38, compared to 43 for non-tech workers. And 42 is the average age of tech-industry managers, compared to 47 for non-tech managers.
- To avoid ageism, Visier recommended that employers review workforce data for signs of age discrimination in hiring, promotions, salaries, performance and turnover; and develop a plan to achieve an inclusive work environment.
Dive Insight:
Of course, millennials account for the largest segment of today's workforce, but it's no secret that the tech industry also struggles with diversity. And even those that have adopted diversity and inclusion initiatives often overlook certain characteristics, including age.
Employers that discriminate against older workers risk violating the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, which protects workers 40 years and older against bias. But despite the law — and the tight labor market — older workers still face discrimination based on age, according to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).
Employment experts say age discrimination often goes unchallenged because stereotypes about older workers such as not being tech savvy, for example, are often considered acceptable. Still, EEOC has pledged to step up its enforcement efforts in that area.
HR professionals can review their organization's hiring practices and flag any signs of age discrimination. They can also work with managers to build cultures of inclusion in which workers of all ages feel valued and respected.
