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Ageism in the Workplace: How to Build Age-Inclusive Workplaces

June 29, 2023

In today's rapidly evolving workforce, discussions around diversity and inclusion are at the forefront for our temp agencies in Wilmington NC. While there’s been progress in addressing various forms of discrimination, ageism remains a prevalent issue that often goes unnoticed. To offer insight, our hiring experts at Roebuck Staffing have outlined the impact of ageism in the workplace and potential strategies for combating age discrimination.

The Negative Impact of Ageism

Ageism is a form of discrimination and prejudice based on a person's age—directed towards individuals deemed as either too old or too young to be capable of excelling in certain workplace tasks.

Older Employees May Face:

Younger Employees May Face:

  • Being overlooked for leadership roles
  • Treated as inexperienced and incapable
  • Communication barriers with older colleagues

Combatting Age Discrimination

There are several strategies and workplace manifestos companies can establish to tackle ageism in the workplace and promote a more fruitful, collaborative environment.

Raise Awareness

Companies can promote education opportunities for employees that inform them of the harmful effects of age discrimination and encourage them to challenge stereotypes. Educational opportunities can be:

  • Training programs
  • Workshops
  • Team-building exercise

Promote Intergenerational Collaboration

Facilitating cross-generational interaction can foster mutual understanding across different departments and promote knowledge sharing. These efforts can be:

  • Mentorship programs
  • Job shadowing
  • Cross-functional team projects

Evaluate HR Practices

Companies must review human resources policies and procedures to identify potential biases related to age. Areas to monitor include:

  • Recruitment tactics
  • Promotions
  • Training and onboarding procedures

Implement Flexible Work Arrangements

Our temp agencies in Wilmington NC note that different generations have diverse work style preferences and commitments outside of work. Companies can offer different work status options to accommodate these preferences, including:

  • Remote work
  • Job sharing
  • Flexible (build-your-own) scheduling

Foster an Inclusive Culture

The company's leaders should always create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued and appreciated. This can be done by:

  • Encouraging open dialogue
  • Showing respect for different experiences
  • Providing opportunities for all employees to contribute and be heard

Trust Our Temp Agencies in Wilmington NC

Building age-inclusive workplaces requires a collective effort from all leaders and employees of temp agencies in Wilmington NC. By combatting age discrimination, businesses can tap into the full potential of their diverse workforce, promoting innovation, creativity, and productivity. Our team at Roebuck Staffing is dedicated to helping employees thrive in their careers—professionally and personally. Visit our Job Seekers page to learn more about our current openings.