Age Discrimination: Middle-Aged Workers Face It Too

A researcher at Boston College found that the probability of being called in for a job interview decreases with age -- beginning in the applicant's mid-30's.

Joanna Lahey of BC's Center for Retirement Research sent out resumes in response to 4,000 advertised entry-level jobs, such as clerical work, licensed practical nurse, and air conditioner repair person.

The result: a worker under 50 is 40% more likely to be called in for an interview than an applicant 50+. But an accompanying graph shows that the drop in employer interest starts in the potential employee's mid-30's. Not good news for anyone in their 40's looking to make a change or re-enter the workforce.

Lahey asked employers why other employers might be unwilling to hire older workers, and the ten most frequent responses were:

1. Shorter career potential (specific human capital investment)
2. Lack energy
3. Costs of health and life insurance and pensions
4. Less flexible/adaptable
5. Higher salary expectations
6. Health risks absences
7. Knowledge and skills obsolescence
8. Block career paths of younger workers
9. Suspicion about competence (why leave job?)
10. Fear of discrimination suit

No word on the age of the people doing the hiring!