Ageism Part 1: Millennials
Wikipedia defines Ageism as “Stereotyping and discriminating against individuals or groups on the basis of their age”. Nowhere does this specify only being directed toward older generations. This is hugely important because while we all may feel age discrimination is only directed towards to the older generations, let’s be honest with ourselves that we’re also the ones discriminating towards “millennials”. I even say this while classifying myself as being part of the older generation when in fact, in today’s day and age I technically fall into the millennial category.
Let’s think about this.. “Millennials” are constantly classified as entitled, unprofessional, unreliable, jumpy, spoiled, etc. But did any of us know what we wanted to do in your early 20’s coming out of school or joining the workforce? And did you love (REALLY love) your first “adult” job? I’m guessing probably not, but if you did love it then you were probably pretty lucky. I think we’ve lost sight of the fact that at that age we didn’t have it all figured out either. It’s a different world now where there are more majors, more industries,more roles and larger companies that are creating far more employment options than there were 10-40 years ago. So perhaps they’re just allowing themselves more time to figure themselves out, what’s wrong with that? So what if they’re not buying a house or settling down right away. Just because these things may have been the society norm years ago, does not mean they still are. And keep in mind that while everyone has a choice on where they want to attend college/university/trade schools, they’re graduating with school loan debt often in the six figure range, and into some of the lowest unemployment rates we’ve seen in a long time especially in specialized fields. This is why they’re not rushing into things.
And lastly, keep in mind that they feel they’re being discriminated against too and viewed as a threat. They’re seeing older generations as resistant to change and new ideas, unwillingness to adopt updated technologies and methodology, and a lack of respect for the millennial generation. Just because they’re younger doesn’t mean they’re only motivated by beer taps and ping pong tables, they’re motivated by the prospect of success in a much larger way than in days past.
I’d love to open this up for a positive discussion on what your experience has been with this, and maybe how you could have looked at the situation from a different perspective in that moment? #recruitersadvice #trendingtopics
Try being 17 in a rural community, where there are little to no jobs. I'm not trying to be rude but still.
The law applies to 40+ or at least it used to
I feel like answering this is somewhat taking the bait, but I will answer a little of my own perspective. Firstly, I am a boomer. As far as Gen-Xers, I never really paid attention, as I was busy concentrating on my own family life. The first I remember feeling millennials were different was outcome based education. I grew up very competitive, so when I heard terms like "everyone's a winner", "we don't keep score in this league", "everybody get's a ribbon", it just seemed lame to me, but I sat back and observed to see if my thoughts were correct. I have to say, I predicted the future for millennials fairly close. The student loan issue stuck in my crull, as those people made the choice to go to school, and then left the debt for others to pay. Not all, but many have let their student loans default. Yes, it may effect their credit for a bit, but it gets wiped off for the tax payers to pay, and I think that is wrong. Jobwise, I didn't notice what you call ageism until I hit fifty. At that point I have noticed being treated differently in interviews, and on the job, but I just held firm on my core beliefs, and got along with everybody. I don't worry about competing against millennials for jobs, as I have been able to compete well. My background is solid, and that gets you through no matter what generation you are. I wish everybody the best, but I think you will always have this discussion.
Every generation has seen the following generation as less than. As Baby Boomers (The Greatest Generation) gave way to Gen-Xers, the boomers saw the Gen X group as lazy, whiny, grungy, entitled, and angsty. I am sure when the Millennials are edged out by whatever is to follow, they will look at that group with righteous indignation.
It's inferred.