Almost all American workers over the age of 40 believe there is ageism in the workplace, and many say they’ve encountered ageist stereotypes, bullying and subtle cultural pressures to conceal their age.
That’s according to the Generational Attitudes in the Workplace survey by MyPerfectResume, which polled 1,003 American workers over the age of 40 on ageism in the workplace.
The survey’s findings reveal a workplace culture that often undervalues experience and maturity, leaving older workers feeling sidelined. Concerning trends for older workers include:
- 99% say there is at least some degree of ageism in the workplace.
- 92% of survey respondents felt pressured to conceal their age or downplay their experience to avoid negative perceptions.
- 95% say age-related stereotypes affect their sense of belonging or inclusion in the workplace.
- 86% say older workers are targets for bullying in the workplace.
- 88% sometimes alter their behavior or language to fit in with younger coworkers.
- 81% say ageist stereotypes are prevalent at work.