Age Awareness
A Guide to Hiring a Multigenerational Workforce
A Guide to Hiring a Multigenerational Workforce
Learn How To Intercept Bias
When a hiring committee meets to discuss candidates, it’s a prime opportunity to interrupt age bias when it happens. By refocusing the hiring committee on each candidate’s core capabilities, you’ll make the team more likely to hire the best candidate, regardless of their age.
Flip each card to read about scenarios that include age bias and how you could respond to interrupt the bias. Scroll through to read them all.
IF YOU HEAR THIS
“She asked a lot of questions about our flexible work policy. She mentioned that her mom needs extra help.”
Click to interrupt the bias
YOU COULD SAY THIS
“I don’t think we should make assumptions based on caregiving. The key is whether she has the skills and commitment for this role now—which she seems to.”
Click to flip back
IF YOU HEAR THIS
“He might be overqualified—this role might bore him.”
Click to interrupt the bias
YOU COULD SAY THIS
“That's a fair concern, but there are lots of reasons people might apply for a role for which they seem overqualified. We should explore his motivations rather than assuming he’ll be bored.”
Click to flip back
IF YOU HEAR THIS
“Do you think she’ll stay in the role long enough? She might be close to retirement.”
Click to interrupt the bias
YOU COULD SAY THIS
“We can’t really predict how long any candidate will stay—people leave roles for lots of reasons. Let’s focus on whether she’s the best person for the job right now.”
Click to flip back
IF YOU HEAR THIS
“She has a lot of experience, but we’re looking for someone with more energy—someone who can keep up.”
Click to interrupt the bias
YOU COULD SAY THIS
“What makes you think she won't be able to keep up? Did she say something in the interview, or are we assuming based on her age?”
Click to flip back
IF YOU HEAR THIS
“She seems like she'll want a promotion really quickly.”
Click to interrupt the bias
YOU COULD SAY THIS
“What did you hear in your interviews that made that impression? Let's look to see if she has a history of job-hopping.”
Click to flip back
