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Mariane Maffeo

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How can we help companies hire more people over the age of 50?

Age discrimination, while illegal, is very much practiced in the United States. Companies appear to believe that younger workers are more productive because they use technology more effectively. I believe that a person's age does not determine whether or not they are technologically literate. Among all age groups, there are early adopters of technology and there are people who are averse to technology. We need to help corporations harness the experience of older workers while still encouraging all workers to become more technologically literate.

Topics: Age Discrimination technology
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    Robert Winner 50+

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    Nov 22 2012: Mariane, As you have not told us where you are from we acan only answer from our perspective and not address your gepgraphical area.

    Your question is very broad so I am going to narrow it down considerably. First, there are some jobs that are more directed to the younger generation. Some corporations use the "young image" to sell their product. Remember the hippies used to say never trust anyone over 30 ... well marketing directs ads to specific groups. My point is that if it is a young persons game don't try to play it.

    Say you run a company and need a machinist ... like yesterday ... You have a 25 year old who went to tech school and has a few hours of educational experience ... and the other candidate is a 50 year old who has 30 years experience with the same equipment your plant has. Not a tough decision. One can start today and be productive immediately .... the other will take training (if there is someone to train him) and may or may not work out and production will suffer until he is up to speed if ever.

    So the point is .. if your 50 then look for a match ... if you have the skills and talents they are looking for and you can make a immediate difference then you will get the job or at least be considered with others who met the same criteria.

    Don' have the attitude that they should do you a favor ... demonstrate that you are doing them a service that will be to their benefit.

    All the best. Bob.

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