You don't have to answer that...
In the United States, it is illegal for a potential employer to ask, “how old are you?” in an interview. However, no law prevents them from asking for age/date of birth on a job application or background check form. So it is possible that they already know your age entering the conversation. Note, this may vary from country to country and even state to state.
Luckily, if the question gets brought up, there are ways around it. I encourage you to shift the focus away from age and focus on the skills and invaluable experience you can bring to the team!
Here are some examples:
I am confident that my years of experience in this area, coupled with my continued passion for learning, will make me an asset to your team! Former employers have embraced age diversity and valued it. Am I correct to think that [COMPANY X] shares the same mindset?
Is there a concern about some skill sets or education related to this position? I am confident that my past experiences and accomplishments make me an ideal candidate for this role. I’d love to briefly highlight some recent projects to demonstrate my ability to succeed in this position!
Ideally, the interviewer will realize what they asked was inappropriate. How they react will also say a lot about the company’s philosophy on diversity.
Have you ever faced potential ageism in your interviews?
In India also They will harras you your age salery drawn.They will ask you give in writing for job commitment otherwise they will not pay.E.g.if you are working marketing department sales figure count as per salery drawn.I do not known this practice is in US also.
thank my dear illyssa
Age discrimination exist, don't doubt that, however put pressure on your state and local elect official. My concerns are why is the waiting list for affordable senior housing so long. Are those residing there truly legal residents of the US and have worked in this country the majority of their lives?
Yes, my fellow Jobcasers, asking what year you graduated from high school is a sneaky way to find out your age. The important thing should be your education level. The year is a stupid, intrusive question. If you are a college graduate, of course you finished high school or have a GED. Then the question of year of HS graduation becomes truly irrelevant.
Wow OMG THANKS A LOT For SHARING YOUR BEAUTIFUL, WONDERFUL, SWEET, NICE and INSPIRATIONAL STORY HERE VIA JOBCASE, DEAR SWEET NEW FRIEND Elyssa Duncan. VERY INFORMATIVE, INTERESTING!!!!!!
Age discrimination is a thing, it has happened to me and it happens to most older employees. Yes, they already know how old you are since every application asks for a Birth Date and Social Security so they can do a Background Check. No, they are not allowed by law to ask the question in an interview.
To counter this I point out that experience is something you gain, you can not be taught it, you have to live it. I then add that I have experience, soft skills and work ethic that most younger employees don't have and that they would be hiring an experienced professional for the same rate as an inexperienced novice and which employee would represent their company better.
Overcome all their objections and concerns show them you are the best candidate and land the job.
This topic is avoided at the surface on behalf of employers before, during interviews, and trial periods. But seeps through in treatment, salary, and/or praises.
I definitely appreciate your input because age are a fact on most job app.
I share your pain, as I am in the same boat, please do not forget the age factor
In India also They will harras you your age salery drawn.They will ask you give in writing for job commitment otherwise they will not pay.E.g.if you are working marketing department sales figure count as per salery drawn.I do not known this practice is in US also.