How can one successfully overcome ageism for experienced workers for those 40-70 years old in the workplace?

The human brain relies heavily on set stereotypes to accelerate the thinking and decision-making process. So don’t think that you’ll never experience ageism in your workplace. First, you need to understand how your mind works by questioning your assumptions. If people in your workplace discriminate against other older adults but not you, it doesn’t mean it will always stay that way.

Here are a few ways to handle ageism in workplaces:

Never stop learning and expanding your knowledge.
Make an effort to keep growing every year, read more, know about new trends, and always look for the most efficient ways. Find yourself a mentor that can help you achieve your goals.

Make it your purpose to prove wrong to those who see older workers as lazy, unambitious people who can’t adapt to change and technology. If you don’t want others to think of you that way, then avoid using your age as a reason why your boss should go easy on you.

Remove the mentality your workplace owes you because of how long you’ve been working there. It’s true, older employees are more experienced and have much to offer, but it won’t do you any good if you keep telling those “back in the old days” stories. It only makes others put on their old-guy stereotype lenses whenever they see you. Separating yourself from younger employees will make them discriminate against you.

Even if your work record makes you feel secure about your position, it shouldn’t affect your performance at all. Always try to maintain the same level of polish and precision as younger employees, and remember that you, as an experienced operator, represent your company more than anyone else.