6. Denying Promotions or Opportunities for Advancement
According to the law, the employer cannot deny you a promotion on the grounds that they think you’ll retire soon. Slashing job duties and isolating you are sneaky strategies for companies to claim you don’t have the qualifications and experience to advance in the company or get a promotion.
If your opportunities are reduced, and you may have a feeling this has something to do with your age, it’s time to do some research and see whether your employer is also targeting younger folks for similar treatment.
7. Harassment
Assigning menial tasks, cutting hours and job duties, and isolating you from the rest of the team are all forms of harassment. Age-based harassment also occurs when your superior or boss is calling you the “old lady” or “old man”; saying you’re senile; constantly asking about your retirement plans; or making other comments related to your age.
If you find yourself in this situation, follow the company’s policy for reporting harassment. According to experts, it’s best to do that in writing. Describe how you’re being treated differently from younger coworkers. Mention any age-related comments that have been made to you (you can also note if other older employees are being targeted). If there’s any evidence or witnesses, don’t forget to mention that too.
Title this document, “Formal Complaint of Age-Based Discrimination and Harassment.” If nothing changes or if the company doesn’t remedy the situation, it may be time to seek professional help from an employment lawyer.
You may also want to read 10 Things You Won’t Hear From the HR People.
